The renowned West Indian cricket writer, commentator and journalist Tony Cozier died on Wednesday in his home country Barbados at the age of 75 after an illness, ESPN Cricinfo reported.

Cozier was admitted to hospital on May 3 for tests related to infections in the neck and legs.

"Deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Tony Cozier today," the ICC said on Twitter. "One of the truly great voices of cricket. A huge loss for the cricket community."

Cozier covered cricket for more than 50 years and was a familiar voice on radio and television in other countries, including Britain and Australia.

“He represented West Indies wherever he went,” the WICB said in a statement.

“He educated people around the world about our cricket, our people, our culture and who we are. His voice was strong and echoed around the cricket world.”

Cozier wrote several books, and was the editor and publisher of the West Indies Cricket Annual for over 20 years.

He was awarded honorary life membership of the Marylebone Cricket Club for services to the game in December 2011.