ST JOHN'S, April 18: The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) on Sunday paid tribute to former captain and wicket-keeper Franz Copeland Murray 'Gerry' Alexander, who died on Saturday at the age of 82.

WICB President Dr Julian Hunte praised Alexander in recalling the contribution he made during the famous 1961 tied Test series in Australia under skipper Sir Frank Worrell.

“On behalf of the WICB and all the cricket-loving people who support West Indies cricket I want to extend heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Gerry Alexander,” said Dr Hunte.

“He was a stalwart in Jamaica and West Indies cricket and made a tremendous contribution to the game as captain and a player on the field. He was an inspiration to many people off the field as well.

“He excelled in the 1960-61 tied Test series in Australia and will always be remembered for the fantastic role he played to help 'save Test cricket'.”

During that tour Down Under, Alexander played in all five Tests, scoring 484 runs, which included his only first-class century in the Third Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

He also made 60 in the first innings at the Gabba in Brisbane in the tied Test and played 25 Test matches.

Educated at Wolmer's Boys School in Jamaica, Alexander also represented Cambridge University.—AFP