R.I.P. Clifford Cox
In his lifetime, Clifford Cox was an outspoken and passionate advocate for cricket. Cox immigrated to Vancouver from England in 1956 and captained the B.C. and Canadian national teams in the '60s. He continued to influence the development of the sport in this country as a vice-president with Cricket Canada and was deeply involved with the Meraloma sports club in Vancouver as well as the B.C. Mainland Cricket League, which bestowed its best athletes with the Cliff Cox Medal, a recognition for outstanding athleticism and sportsmanship. According to Cricket Canada, "The medal's significance amplified ideals and values that Cliff held dear throughout his involvement in the game."
Cox died of a heart attack Feb. 4 at home in Vancouver. He was 79.
Vimal Hardat, the president of Cricket B.C. remembered Cox as a mentor and a friend. "The legendary status that he has achieved in cricket will be forever remembered not only in Canada but also internationally," wrote Hardat in a tribute to the late cricketer. "His advice and vision to improve this game in Canada was second to none."
I didn't have the chance to meet him but was pleased to read Cox was also an enthusiastic supporter of women's cricket.
In recognition of his service to the sport, the International Cricket Council awarded him its Centenary Medal in 2009. He was a lifetime member.
Bal Gosal, Canada's minister of sport, released a public statement this week, recognizing Cox as "a leading figure in our nation's cricket scene, both as a player and a builder."
Cox is survived by his wife and two daughters, as well as his sister and a niece.
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