In a historic tribute to the cricket legend Sir Vivian Richards, Eastern Caribbean countries are set to introduce special $2 notes featuring the iconic West Indies cricketer. The currency, unveiled at a ceremony in Antigua, commemorates the 40 years of existence of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) and is scheduled to be available in banks across the region from December 6.
Sir Vivian Richards, widely regarded as one of the greatest batsmen of his generation, expressed his gratitude, deeming the honor a “dream come true.” He credited his late parents for instilling the self-belief that propelled him to success in the world of cricket.
Viv Richards said
“To be honored in such a way is something dreams are made of,” remarked Sir Vivian as he received the inaugural $2 note produced by the ECCB, according to statements reported by islandpressbox.com.
In addition to the currency release, Sir Vivian is set to host a charity golf tournament, with proceeds benefiting the Antigua & Barbuda Renal Society, supporting individuals with kidney failure. The ECCB has pledged XCD$25,000 towards this charitable cause.
The choice of Sir Vivian Richards for this distinctive honor stems from his profound impact on the West Indian community and his unwavering stance on critical issues affecting black Caribbean people. The cricket legend views the sport not just as a game but as a Caribbean contribution to the global fight against racism and white supremacy.
Camillo Gonsalves, Chairman of the ECCB Monetary Council, emphasized Sir Vivian’s vocal stand on these issues, contrasting it with the current generation of cricketers. Gonsalves expressed concern about modern players prioritizing financial gains over the unity of the West Indies cricket team.
“Today, apartheid raises its head in new forms and new locations, morphing into genocide, and our sports people are quiet. But Sir Viv was never quiet,” stated Camillo Gonsalves. He criticized contemporary cricketers for being consumed by monetary pursuits and forgetting the importance of team unity.
Sir Vivian Richards, who captained the West Indies team from 1984 to 1991, holds a remarkable record of leading the team to 27 victories without a single Test series loss. His legacy as a cricketing icon is now further immortalized on the $2 notes circulating in the Eastern Caribbean, symbolizing his enduring influence on the sport and the region.
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