Former West Indies All-Rounder Bernard Julien Dies at 75

The cricketing community is in mourning following the death of Bernard Denis Julien, a former West Indies all-rounder famed for his pivotal role in the 1975 World Cup triumph. He passed away on October 4, 2025, in Valsayn, Trinidad, at the age of 75. 


🏏 Cricketing Legacy & Career Highlights

  • Julien played 24 Test matches and 12 ODIs for the West Indies between 1973 and 1977. 

  • In Tests, he amassed 866 runs (average ~ 30.92) and took 50 wickets

  • In the inaugural 1975 World Cup, Julien delivered critical performances:
     • 4/20 vs Sri Lanka in the group stage
     • 4/27 vs New Zealand in the semi-final
     • In the final vs Australia at Lord’s, he scored 26 off 37 balls* and also chipped in with 2/38 with the ball.

  • Julien was celebrated for his versatility: normally a left-arm swing bowler, but capable of switching to left-arm spin or orthodox left-arm when conditions warranted. 

  • He also had a fruitful stint in English county cricket with Kent (1970–1977), playing 179 matches, taking 336 wickets, and scoring 3,296 runs. 


💬 Tributes & Reactions

  • The West Indies Players’ Association (WIPA) expressed deep condolences, noting Julien’s lasting contributions to West Indies cricket. Jamaica Gleaner

  • In its statement, Cricket West Indies, led by President Dr. Kishore Shallow, highlighted Julien’s role not just as a cricketer but as part of the broader narrative of West Indies cricket, and urged reflection on the complexities of the sport’s history. 

  • Former captain Clive Lloyd fondly recalled Julien’s commitment and reliability with bat and ball, emphasizing the respect and admiration he commanded among peers. 


🕊 In Memoriam

Bernard Julien’s death marks the loss of a dignified, versatile cricketer whose performances, especially in the 1975 World Cup, remain etched in West Indies cricket lore. His ability to adapt his bowling style, coupled with sturdy contributions with the bat, made him a valuable team member during a golden era.

In remembering Julien, the cricket world also acknowledges the complexities of his era—including his participation in the rebel tours to South Africa, which effectively ended his international career. 

May he rest in peace, and may his legacy inspire future generations of cricketers.