Desmond Haynes, born February 15, 1956, in Barbados, is a legendary West Indian cricketer who played an instrumental role in the dominance of the West Indies team during the 1980s. A gifted right-handed opening batsman, Haynes forged a formidable partnership with fellow opener Gordon Greenidge, with whom he shared 16 century stands in Tests.

Haynes made his Test debut against Australia in 1978 and went on to score 7,487 runs in 116 Test matches at an average of 42.29, including 18 centuries and 39 half-centuries. In One Day Internationals (ODIs), he represented West Indies in 238 games, amassing 8,648 runs at an average of 41.37 with 17 centuries and 57 fifties. Haynes was also an able fielder, taking 115 catches in Tests and 88 in ODIs.

Renowned for his excellent technique, patience, and ability to play on all types of pitches, Haynes was a key figure in West Indies’ cricketing history. Post retirement, he went on to mentor and coach cricketers across the globe, sharing his knowledge and expertise with the next generation. Desmond Haynes’ illustrious career, characterized by exceptional skill and sportsmanship, remains an inspiration to cricketers worldwide.