Former West Indian Cricketer, Colin Croft has become an integral part of the BBC’s coverage during their Test Match Special shows. A prominent bowler during the late 70s, early 80s period, Croft used his height to become an aggressive bowler. To this day he holds the record for the best Test innings in West Indian cricket with 8/29 against Pakistan in 1977. Now retired from professional cricket, his focuses have been turned towards commentary and after dinner speaking, specialising as a cricket speaker. Controversially, Croft became part of the ‘rebel tour’ of 1982, who toured apartheid-divided South Africa, going against the International ban involving sport at that time.
Granted 'honorary whites' by South African government, the tour resulted in the participating players being banned from International Cricket for life, ending Croft’s career- this ban was eventually lifted in 1989. Croft experienced first hand the real issues which the apartheid bought to South Africa, and to the world, and certainly has plenty to tell from his time within those areas and his subsequent ban. Offering a comprehensive explanation behind his reasoning to participate within the tour, along with what was involved during their time in South Africa, Croft has become a desired after dinner speaker and cricket speaker.
His ability to meticulously deliver the information to the audience, helping to transport the guests to the experiences he faced whilst playing in an apartheid-divided country, against the wishes of the rest of the world, is phenomenal. He enthrals the audience throughout, and such is the interest and wonder, that you could hear in a pin drop during his talks as an after dinner speaker. The controversial cricketer has now turned his attentions to media commitments, providing analysis during the 2007 ICC Cricket World Cup for BBC radio. He has also become a staple edition of Sky Sports cricket coverage- especially when games involving the West Indies are being aired. As a cricket speaker, he is sought after for keynote speeches and after dinner speaking events, and can add a new dimension to your event.
How to hire Colin Croft
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring Colin Croft for your next event, today. To get in touch, simply call an official booking agent on 0207 1010 553 or email us at [email protected] for more information.
** We do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, birthday messages or any other non-commercial contact with the speakers or acts. Each speaker on the website may not have necessarily worked with Champions in the past but are known to perform such engagements within the industry.
"The event went really well. Colin was excellent and very generous with his time. He stopped to speak to anyone who wanted a word with him and was in no rush to leave at the end - very different to most speakers we have!" - Craig, Neston CC
