Cricket West Indies (CWI) CEO Chris Dehring has paid heartfelt tribute to former West Indies wicketkeeper Milton Pydanna, who passed away recently. In an emotional statement, Dehring described Pydanna as a "humble servant of the game" and a proud son of Guyana, whose quiet strength and lifelong commitment to cricket left a lasting impact.
“It is with a heavy heart that we at Cricket West Indies mourn the passing of Milton Pydanna — a humble servant of the game, a proud Guyanese, and a cherished member of our cricketing family,” Dehring said.
Though Pydanna’s time in the maroon was brief — he featured in one Test and three One-Day Internationals for the West Indies in the early 1980s — Dehring emphasized that his contribution to the sport transcended statistics.
“Milton’s story is one of quiet strength and untiring perseverance. In an era dominated by some of the greatest cricketers our region has ever known, Milton stood with dignity and determination, always prepared to answer the call for West Indies. Though his time in the maroon may have been brief, his impact was far deeper — a symbol of the countless men and women who give their all for the game, often without the spotlight they so richly deserve.”
Pydanna was known for his sharp work behind the stumps and his poise under pressure. One of his most notable moments came in the 1983 World Cup when he claimed the prized wicket of Pakistani great Javed Miandad. Domestically, his loyalty to Guyana and Berbice cricket was unwavering, and in his post-playing years, he dedicated himself to coaching and mentoring young players in the United States.
“Milton Pydanna may not have been a household name, but he was a hero in his own right — a testament to dedication, humility, and love for the game,” Dehring added. “His journey reminds us that greatness is not only measured in records, but in heart, sacrifice, and service.”
Dehring extended condolences on behalf of CWI to Pydanna’s family, friends, and former teammates, and acknowledged the legacy he leaves behind.