Get cozy with 'Coze'

“Good morning to you wherever you are.”

Those are the most comforting words uttered in cricket commentary these days.

As I hear them emanating from behind Tony Cozier’s lip-mike, I can picture millions of viewers around the world break into a satisfied smile as they settle down for a session or two of action.

What a delight it is to have one of the ‘voices of cricket’ and one of the game’s true gentlemen broadcasting with us during this current series. Tony Cozier is synonymous with the game. He is up there with the likes of Richie Benaud, John Arlott, Charles Fortune and Alan McGilvray…..and what a voice!

His tone has been described as being as silky as a Michael Holding run-up and his knowledge of the game is extraordinary. He is a walking encyclopaedia and a generous sponge for us mere mortals to soak information from. His professionalism and his acute sense of humour make him a pleasure to ply our trade alongside, even if his beloved West Indies team are not hitting their straps.

As the son of a well-known cricketing journalist he began his illustrious career way back (sorry Tony!) in 1964 and has since delighted cricketing enthusiasts in all corners of the globe. He has worked on and watched more Caribbean cricket than anyone around and freely admits it has been a frustrating existence. One of my favoured quotes of Tony’s regarding his team is, “The only thing consistent about West Indies cricket is their inconsistency.”

I know that many of you, after only hearing Tony over the last few years and not seeing him on camera, are astounded to find that he is a white West Indian. That is a rarity in itself as that accounts for only 2% of the Caribbean populous. I cannot finish this piece without telling an amusing story regarding this misconception.

When I was in the Caribbean in 2001 covering South Africa’s tour, a local cameraman by the name of Ryle used ‘Coze’ to his advantage. Now before I go any further let me inform you that Ryle is not only superb at his job but he is also a very dark, extremely well built Barbadian.

He arrived one morning to go about his job of work and upon approaching the entrance gate had realized that he had left his accreditation at the hotel. Upon engaging in brief conversation with the local officious gate man and telling him of his plight, he realized he was in trouble and access was initially denied.

Ryle then decided his only chance was to inform the gentleman that he was an important member of the television crew and his entry was of paramount importance. Once Ryle launched into a more legible conversation, he could see the man’s eyes light up.

Suddenly the official broke into a huge smile and said, “I know that voice.” Ryle adopted a friendly stance realizing that his luck was changing. The gate man continued. “You are Tony Cozier.” he said, much to Ryle’s astonishment.

Ryle mumbled an affirmative reply and immediately he was given the green light to enter the stadium.

Those who witnessed the event can still recall the large, very dark figure of one of the Caribbean’s premier lensmen walking away in disbelief, shaking his head all the way to his camera position!

‘Coze’ reckons it was Ryle’s superb athletic build that caused the mistaken identity…..not the voice!!!!!!