Manny martindale

On this day in 1909, a fiery West Indian fast-bowling pioneer was born — Manny Martindale, the mischievous little hitman who stood just 5ft 8in but bowled with the menace of a giant. In an era before the Caribbean became synonymous with terrifying pace, Martindale — alongside the great Learie Constantine — showed the world what West Indian quicks were truly capable of.

In the 1933 series, he and Constantine flipped the script. England had dished out Bodyline the previous year… but at Old Trafford, Martindale decided to return the favour. He unleashed a barrage of short-pitched thunderbolts that rattled England’s top order and their pride. The moment that entered cricket folklore came when one of his bouncers split Wally Hammond’s chin wide open — a blunt reminder that West Indian pace had arrived.

Despite bowling in only three innings that series, Martindale snatched 14 wickets, finishing his short Test career with an impressive 37 wickets at 21 apiece. Off the international stage, he became a beloved figure in the Lancashire League, turning out for Burnley for several years.

Manny Martindale passed away in Barbados in 1972, but his legacy lives on as one of the first true architects of West Indian fast-bowling fire.