West Indies cricketers pulled out of the tour of India after the fourth One-day International because of their refusal to accept a new payment structure introduced by the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB). The West Indies had agreed to play five One-day internationals, one Twenty20 and three Tests.
The action by the players is embarassing to the WICB and can have a damaging effect on West Indies cricket overall. Too many times the WICB and the players themselves have had various disputes and on some occasions it was with the West Indies Players Association. Sometimes the dispute remain unresolved for a long time leading to a crisis.
It is reported that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering what action should be taken against the WICB for its team pulling out of the tour to India mid-way, resulting in losses up to $65 million.
FUTURE TOURS IN TROUBLE
The pullout of the West Indies team is now causing uncertainty about the team’s visit to South Africa in November. There are also feas that the West Indies going to the world cup may suffer the same fate. Young and talented players are frustrated with this standoff.
The WICB must take full responsibility for this incomplete tour to India. It is responsible and obligated to complete all contracts to play cricket. The WICB must hurriedly resolve this impasse and place systems and structures in place to avoid such a situation re-occurring. Teams may not feel comfortable visiting the West Indies because of the unstable climate, which surrounds West Indies cricket.
WEST INDIES CRICKET IN CRISIS
It is evident that the West Indies cricketers are not complying with the players association agreement with the WICB. This deepens the crisis because it seems as if the players have no confidence in the players’ association. The players’ association must show regard for the players’ interest. Financially and otherwise, the president and chief executive officer of the WIPA must take up his responsibilities seriously and in good faith.
