Former West Indies Cricket Captain subsequent team manager, ICC match referee, cricket committee chairman and living legend Clive Lloyd CBE AO thrilled local youngsters and elders alike by visiting the state of the art indoor cricket net facilities at Purushottam Mahal (part of the recently opened multi- purpose community business and spiritual hub - Shree Muktajeevan Swamibapa Complex, Shree Swaminarayan Temple on Kingsbury Road on Friday 26 September.

The 6’ 5” stooped shouldered frame of the “gentleman of cricket” and newly appointed head of W.Indies selectors strolled onto the Complex even at 70 years of age still easily recognisable sporting the famous large moustache and thick glasses seen strutting from Pavilions all over the world to strike terror in the hearts of bowling sides some 30 years ago when in his prime.

Muks Rabadia 34 (from Kingsbury) of Swamibapa Cricket Club and Shree Swaminarayan Temple Kingsbury’s Shree Muktajeevan Sports Academy (who were hosting his visit) said “he lived up to the “laid back genius” style synonymous with W. Indies cricket. The relaxed manner in which he spoke and inspired the youngsters of our club was clear sign that he was well aware of the importance of grass root cricket”

The man himself was well impressed with the facilities and in particular remarked “You know, I have been to many temples all over the world in my time and I must say this is the very first time I have seen a temple support its youth and the local community with sporting facilities such as these. I would be happy to come along here again with some of my fellow colleagues from yester year to work with young cricketers of the future in such splendid spiritual environment”

Young Swamibapa cricket hopeful Raj Khokhrai 13 from Kenton said “I was so excited to meet such a legend whom I only previously saw on TV or Youtube”

Temple trustee Dr Mahesh Varsani added “inspiring the community with such visits from role model heroes is at the heart of what this community is all about, Watch this space!!”