Sonny Ramadhin led the West Indies to their first Test series win

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 5, 2026, 3:17 PM

Last updated Sep 5, 2026

Sonny Ramadhin led the West Indies to their first Test series win
Summary

Sonny Ramadhin became the first cricketer of Indian origin to play for the West Indies during the 1950 tour of England. Alongside fellow spinner Alf Valentine, he played a central role in the West Indies' 3-1 series victory, which marked the first time the team defeated England in England. Despite entering the series with limited first-class experience, the spin duo proved decisive. Ramadhin claimed 5 for 66 and 6 for 86 during the iconic second Test at Lord's, where the West Indies secured a 326-run win. The team's historic performance inspired the famous calypso song Cricket, Lovely Cricket. This series established Ramadhin as a key figure in early West Indies cricket history.

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By the Numbers
  • Sonny Ramadhin was the first cricketer of Indian origin to represent the West Indies.
  • The 1950 tour of England marked the first time the West Indies defeated England in England.
  • Ramadhin and Alf Valentine formed a highly effective spin bowling partnership during the series.
  • The victory at Lord's inspired the creation of the famous song Cricket, Lovely Cricket.
  • West Indies clinched the series with a 3-1 final record.
Latest Updates
  • 3:17 PMYahoo Sports'Those two little pals of mine': Sonny Ramadhin became first Indian-origin cricketer to play for West Indies in 1950, helped them beat England in England for the first time. He became part of first great West Indies team and a protagonist of one of cricket's most iconic songs
What they're saying
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Born in St Charles Village in Trinidad, not far from the capital Port of Spain, Ramadhin lost both his parents when he was a toddler. He was raised by his grandparents, who had migrated from India to work on one of Trinidad's cocoa estates.

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