Year: 2023

The recent ouster of the West Indies cricket team from the Cricket World Cup 2023 qualifying tournament has left fans and officials in disbelief. Prime Minister Keith Rowley of Trinidad and Tobago expressed his disappointment, stating that it was the worst cricket match ever played by a West Indies team. The team’s defeats against the Netherlands and Scotland, both considered cricketing minnows, have highlighted the ongoing decline of West Indies cricket. Reflecting on the history of West Indies cricket, there have been periods of success and failure, glory and disappointment. From the colonialist era to the leadership of Frank Worrell and the dominant era of players like Viv Richards and Clive Lloyd, West Indies cricket once struck fear in the hearts of opponents. However, in recent years, the team’s performance has steadily declined, leading to a lack of interest from other nations in hosting matches against them. Prime Minister Rowley’s scathing criticism of the team’s performance is justified, as the decline has been evident for decades. The allure of money and the rise of shorter versions of the game, like the Indian Premier League, have shifted the focus from skill and professionalism to financial gains. Many young cricketers in the Caribbean prioritize money over the sport’s history and the values it represents. The issues plaguing West Indies cricket reflect a broader problem in Caribbean society, where moral and ethical standards have eroded over time. The lack of exemplary leadership from politicians and officials has contributed to this decline. As Prime Minister Rowley aptly noted, the embarrassment faced by the West Indies team didn’t happen overnight; it has been a long time coming.

Over the past months and years, international sports have been plagued by conflicts and challenges that call for a comprehensive re-evaluation of how we perceive and prepare for the future of sports. Caribbean sport administrators, except for a few, have struggled to actively participate in decision-making processes of international sports organizations, perpetuating a legacy of subservience. Despite showcasing exceptional talent, our administrators often submit to international authorities, undermining the belief in our equality.

The recent controversies surrounding FIFA, the emergence of the European Championships, the proposed European Super League, and the struggles of boxing and other sports demonstrate the complex dynamics at play. Financial interests, lack of ethics, and power imbalances overshadow the values of good governance, fair play, and athlete well-being.

As Caribbean nations, it is crucial that we engage in discussions and actively pursue our collective interests within international sports organizations. We must critically analyze existing models, including those of the IOC and the Olympic Games, to determine the best course of action for our region.

The future of international sport hangs in the balance, and it is imperative that we reflect on the direction we want it to take. The influence of money and self-righteousness within sports politics must be confronted, and rigorous principles applied uniformly to ensure fairness and transparency.

Together, we can shape a future where Caribbean sports administrators play an equal and influential role, safeguarding the values of sport and championing the interests of our athletes and nations.

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