Cozier laid to rest

West Indies cricket's media titan Tony Cozier was laid to rest on Friday following a service at the Coral Ridge Memorial Gardens that was attended by several dignitaries and influential members of the regional cricket community.

Barbados legend Garry Sobers topped the list of mourners along with former Chief Justice David Simmons, noted Caribbean jurist Richard Cheltenham, the West Indies batting great Everton Weekes and outstanding former fast bowler Wes Hall, who conducted the ceremony, reports CMC.

Several former West Indies players were also in attendance including chairman of selectors, Clive Lloyd; Barbados Cricket Association president Joel Garner and West Indies head coach Phil Simmons.

Known as the 'voice of the West Indies cricket', Cozier chronicled the fortunes of the team for nearly six decades, in an illustrious career which saw him rise to the summit of the industry.

Cozier was eulogised by son Craig who described him as an outstanding family man, a true professional and a pioneer in the field of cricket journalism.

"I was lucky to have him as my mentor and teacher as I too charted a path in journalism and cricket, learning as much from his vast professional know-how as his human qualities," said Craig.

"For a long time the sole Caribbean presence on overseas campaigns, dad paved the way for others to follow and he was delighted to be joined by likeminded Caribbean men to share his experiences with."

He added: "Dad always had time for people and especially loved his family time."