CRICKET-DEATH-‘True icon’ Shillingford dies.

ROSEAU, Dominica, CMC – Irvine Shillingford, the first Dominican to represent West Indies, passed away earlier Thursday.

CMC Sports understands Shillingford died in the hospital after ailing for some time. He was 78.

A right-hander blessed with much potential, Shillingford played four Tests and two One-Day Internationals for West Indies during the 1970s. He scored a hundred against Pakistan in Georgetown in only his second Test.

In paying tribute, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit labeled Shillingford a “true icon” who had been a pioneer for Dominican cricketers.

“We have lost a true icon who brought great joy to the cricket-loving Dominican public. He stood as an example of all achievable for Dominican players of the most beloved sport in the West Indies,” Skerrit said in a statement.

“He was the first Dominican to play for the West Indies Cricket team and is still the only one to have scored a test century. For a brief moment, he represented the dreams and aspirations of many Dominican cricketers who hoped to achieve similar glory.

“He never lost his love for the game, leading his local club, Cavaliers, well into his 60s and inspiring young cricketers to pursue their passions in the sport. He also served for many years as a national selector.

“Irving Shillingford was a source of pride for all of us, and his name is forever etched in the minds and hearts of the Dominican people. We will continue to honor his memory and celebrate his legacy.

“On behalf of the Government and People of Dominica, I extend sincere and heartfelt condolences to his family and others who mourn his passing.”

Shillingford made his first-class debut at age 16 but had to wait another 16 years before making his Test debut against Pakistan in Port of Spain in 1977, alongside the vaunted likes of Alvin Kallicharan, Gordon Greenidge, Vivian Richards, in a side led by Clive Lloyd.

His debut was quiet, but he shone in the next Test when he stroked 120 in a drawn encounter.

Following the fourth Test of the five-match series, Shillingford’s next appearance for West Indies was a year later, making three and 16 in the third Test against Australia in Georgetown.

He played a single ODI afterward and never featured again.