Former South Africa cricket chief Dr Ali Bacher has led the sportsworld in paying tributes to former England all-rounder Basil D'Oliveira who died recently at the age of 83, says the BBC.
D'Oliveira, who was born in South Africa, played 44 Tests for England after the doors were closed to non-white players in his home country.
The apartheid regime also prevented him from playing for England in South Africa in 1968 because of his colour.
“He will always remain a giant in the transformation of South African sport,” Dr. Bacher has said.
D'Oliveria was awarded the OBE for his services to sport, which was later upgraded to the CBE. The BBC's Pat Murphy, who helped write D'Oliveira's autobiography titled “Time to Declare” said, “He became a flagship for all those who despised the whole concept of apartheid.
“His memory will live on through the Basil D'Oliveira Trophy which is awarded to the winner of the matches held between South Africa and England. The series next year is expected to have even more meaning.”
Watch these links: Cricketing legend Basil D'Oliveira http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=zXitY3TQVdo
Former England cricketer Basil D'Oliveira http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GcofGvgQZK8
Apartheid in South Africa through sport http://www.youtube.com/watch?
v=i9DCL7D76R4&feature=related
