29 September 1934
Lancelot Richard Gibbs, born on 29 September 1934 in Georgetown, British Guiana, is one of the most successful spin bowlers in Test cricket history. A right-arm off-break bowler, Gibbs was the second player in history to take 300 Test wickets — a remarkable achievement for a spinner in an era dominated by pace.
Gibbs took 309 wickets in 79 Tests at an average of 29.09, holding the world record for most Test wickets at the time of his retirement. He made his Test debut on 5 February 1958 against Pakistan and went on to serve West Indian cricket for nearly two decades. In first-class cricket, he claimed a staggering 1,024 wickets in 330 matches. He also played county cricket for Warwickshire and had a stint with South Australia.
79
Tests
1,024
fc wickets
1958–1976
career span
8/38
best bowling
309
test wickets
29.09
bowling average
Gibbs settled in the United States after his playing career and was involved in cricket administration and coaching.
When Gibbs retired, he held the record for the most wickets taken by any bowler in Test cricket. His achievement is all the more remarkable given that he bowled during an era when pitches generally favoured batsmen and pace bowlers. He is a cousin of Sir Clive Lloyd, making them one of cricket's most distinguished family connections.
No photographs uploaded yet.
