Shadow Minister of Sports, Wavell Hinds, has expressed deep sadness at the passing of Dorothy Hobson, a pioneer whose contribution to women’s cricket in Jamaica and the wider Caribbean helped to shape the sport and the lives of many within it.

Hinds described Hobson as a trailblazer who represented Jamaica and the West Indies with distinction at a time when opportunities for women in cricket were limited, yet whose commitment and excellence expanded what was possible for future generations.

“Dorothy Hobson was not only a pioneer of the game; she was also someone who shaped lives through her leadership and mentorship,” Hinds said. “I had the privilege of being coached by her during my high school years at Camperdown in 1992 and 1993, and I saw first-hand her discipline, her belief in young people, and her deep love for cricket.”

He further noted that Hobson was a longstanding and loyal member of the Melbourne Cricket Club, where her service and commitment to the game were deeply valued, reflecting her lifelong dedication to cricket at every level.

Hinds added that her influence extended well beyond the field of play, as she continued to serve the sport through coaching, administration, and development work, helping to create opportunities for others long after her own playing days had ended. “As Shadow Minister of Sports, and as someone who personally benefitted from her guidance, I recognise Dorothy Hobson as a builder of the game,” Hinds said. “Her legacy lives on in the athletes she mentored, the structures she strengthened, and the confidence she instilled in young players to believe that they belonged in cricket.”

Hinds extended heartfelt condolences to Hobson’s family, friends, former teammates, members of the Melbourne Cricket Club, and the wider cricket fraternity, noting that her passing is a significant loss to Jamaican and West Indies sport, but that her impact will continue to be felt for generations to come.