George Headley (1909–1983) was a West Indian cricketer who played 22 Test matches, mostly before the Second World War. Considered one of the best batsmen to play for West Indies and one of the greatest cricketers of all time, he also represented Jamaica and played professionally in England. Headley was born in Panama but raised in Jamaica where he quickly established a cricketing reputation as a batsman. West Indies had a weak cricket team through most of Headley's career; as their one world-class player, he carried a heavy responsibility, and they depended on his batting. He batted at number three, scoring 2,190 runs in Tests at an average of 60.83, and 9,921 runs in all first-class matches at an average of 69.86. He was chosen as one of the Wisden Cricketers of the Year in 1934. Following his tour of England in 1933, Headley signed as a professional at Haslingden in the Lancashire League, where he played until the outbreak of war in 1939 interrupted his career. Although he returned to Tests in 1948 he was hampered by injuries. Even so, he was chosen as West Indies captain in 1948 against England, the first black player to be appointed to the position. (Full article...)