Former West Indies batter Easton McMorris dies aged 86

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He played 13 Tests, scoring his only century during the home series against India in 1961-62

Easton McMorris, the former Jamaica captain and West Indies batter, has died at the age of 86. A right-hand opening batter, McMorris played 13 Tests between 1958 and 1966, scoring 564 runs at an average of 26.85.

McMorris scored 13 and 16 on debut against Pakistan in 1957-58, lining up alongside Everton Weekes, Garry Sobers and Conrad Hunte. In his next match, against England in Bridgetown, he was run out at the non-striker’s end without facing a ball. He had to withdraw from the next Test after picking up an injury, but returned for the third and scored 73 in front of his home supporters.

After missing out on West Indies’ tour of Australia in 1960-61, McMorris was recalled for the home series against India in 1961-62, where he hit the only Test century of his career, at Sabina Park. He followed that up with back-to-back fifties at Port of Spain.

McMorris toured England in 1963 and 1966 but averaged just 13.38 in his four Test appearances, struggling to come to terms with the slower, greener pitches. He, however, continued to score heavily for Jamaica in the Shell Shield, in latter years as their captain, and ended his first-class career with 5906 runs from 95 matches, including 18 centuries.

“I had the privilege to engage with Mr McMorris on a few occasions over the years. I found him to be an encouraging and selfless gentleman,” CWI president Ricky Skerritt said. “Easton was a true stalwart of the game and contributed significantly at all levels, on and off the field.

“He was a leader at the Lucas Cricket Club, carrying on the legacy established by the great George Headley. After retirement from playing, he gave yeoman service as a board member of the Jamaica Cricket Association and manager of the Jamaica cricket team.”

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