Chris Gayle and Stefanie Taylor to receive Order of Distinctions

The Government of Jamaica has announced that Chris Gayle and the current captain of West Indies women’s team Stefanie Taylor are set to receive the 6th highest honour which can be bestowed on any Jamaican national – the Order of Distinction. According to West Indies Players Association (WIPA), the prestigious honour will be presented on 16th October 2017 at Jamaican National Awards Ceremony on National Heroes’ Day.

The Order of Distinction is the national order in the Jamaican Honours System. The honour is conferred upon citizens of Jamaica who have rendered outstanding and important services to Jamaica, or to distinguished citizens of a country other than Jamaica. Gayle and Taylor are among the very few cricketers to receive it.

Wavell Hinds — President and CEO of WIPA congratulated both the cricketers and said, “On behalf of WIPA, our board, staff and members we would like to extend heartfelt congratulations to Chris Gayle and Stafanie Taylor. To be recognized from the land of one’s birth for your contribution to your country fills one with immense pride and joy. Both Chris and Stefanie have exhibited themselves to be exemplary on and off the cricket field and are deserving of this honour.”

A look at the contribution of Gayle and Taylor to cricket

The 37-year-old made his maiden appearance for Jamaica in 1998 and then played his first international game a year later. Since then he has been an integral part of the West Indies side. He was also the captain for a significant period of time. Recently, he has secured his place in ODI team again. Earlier, Gayle had expressed his desire to play for West Indies in 2019 World Cup.

Stefanie Taylor has been part of the Women’s team from 2008. She made her international debut at the young age of 17. She has won the Cricket West Indies/WIPA Women’s player of the year 10 times and will also become the first women to receive this honour. Stefanie has emerged as one of the most inspirational women cricketers ever.