April 6th: Today’s Feature

April

Part II: Basil D’Oliveira

Legacy

Despite not having played for South Africa, Basil D'Oliveira was recognised as one of the top 10 South African cricketers of the century in 2000. This acknowledgment speaks to his exceptional talent and skill in the sport.

In 2004, the Test series between England and South Africa was commemorated with the creation of the Basil D'Oliveira Trophy, a perpetual trophy that symbolises the significance of the matches between the two teams. This trophy serves as a testament to D'Oliveira's impact on the game and his lasting legacy.

In recognition of his contributions to cricket and his achievements, Basil D'Oliveira was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2005 Queen's Birthday Honours. This prestigious honour highlights his remarkable career and the respect he garnered within the cricketing community.

Additionally, in 2005, a stand at New Road in Worcester was named in Basil D'Oliveira's honour. This gesture further solidifies his status as a revered figure in the cricketing world and pays tribute to his significant contributions to the sport.

Following the end of his playing career in 1980, D'Oliveira collaborated with BBC's Pat Murphy to write an autobiography titled "Time to Declare." This book provided insights into his life and experiences, including his perspective on the canceled South African cricket tour to England in 1970.

Journalist Peter Oborne also delved into D'Oliveira's life and the controversies surrounding him in his biography titled "Basil D'Oliveira: Cricket and Conspiracy." This book, accompanied by Paul Yule's award-winning documentary "Not Cricket—The Basil D'Oliveira Conspiracy," shed light on the challenges D'Oliveira faced and the impact he had on the sport.

Basil D'Oliveira's influence extended beyond the cricketing world, as he was even referenced in the first episode of the BBC comedy series "Fawlty Towers." The character of The Major exclaimed, "D'Oliveira made a hundred!" showcasing the widespread recognition and admiration for his achievements.

Personal Life

He was married to Naomi, with whom he had a son named Damian D'Oliveira that played first-class cricket for Worcestershire CCC and later became part of the coaching staff upon retiring from playing.

The legacy continued with Damian's son, Brett D'Oliveira, who is now the captain of Worcestershire CCC, making his debut for the county back in 2011.

It is worth noting that there has been a member of the D'Oliveira family involved with Worcestershire CCC, either as a player or coach, since Basil D'Oliveira first joined the County in 1964, showcasing a longstanding connection and contribution to the team.

Death

In his later years, D'Oliveira battled Parkinson's disease, a condition that affected his health. Sadly, he passed away in England at the age of 80, although there is some uncertainty about his exact age at the time of his death, with some sources suggesting he may have been 83. His legacy, however, lives on through the heartfelt farewell written by Trevor Manuel, South Africa's Minister in the Presidency for National Planning, which was published in the final 2011 issue of Time magazine. Manuel's tribute not only celebrates D'Oliveira's personal achievements as a cricket player but also emphasises the profound impact he had on South African sport and society as a whole.

To honour the memory of D'Oliveira, a memorial service was held at Worcester Cathedral on 27 January 2012. The service provided an opportunity for friends, family, and admirers to pay their respects and reflect on the remarkable life of this cricket legend. Among the eulogies delivered during the service, one particularly poignant speech was given by Sir Michael Parkinson, who eloquently captured the essence of D'Oliveira's character and his significant contributions to the world of cricket.

Recognising the immense influence D'Oliveira had on the city of Worcester, he was posthumously awarded the Freedom of the City in September 2018. This prestigious honour was bestowed upon him in a ceremony held at the Guildhall in Worcester on 14 September 2018. Although D'Oliveira was no longer with us, his son Shaun graciously accepted the award on his behalf, symbolising the enduring legacy of his father's remarkable achievements and the lasting impact he had on the community.