FEW THINGS DRIVE the passion and at the same time infuriate people across the English-speaking Caribbean as the game of cricket does.
The performance of the regional team can bring out the pride of West Indies cricket fans worldwide; it is one of the few things that still unites the people of this region.
So when the regional squad is performing as poorly as it has been on a consistent basis in recent times, then the anger is understandable.
For many years now, the frustration has not only been with the players, the coaches and selectors, but with the administration of the West Indies cricket.
There has been one blunder followed by another, unfortunately usually of bigger proportions. That pride of representing this region on the world stage and proving that we are a class act is no longer there.
So there is little wonder why not only loyal fans and even casual observers have been venting their disappointment with the performances on and off the field. The region’s politicians are, equally upset.
While the WICB’s leadership may be inclined to ignore the fans, the same approach and attitude cannot be applied when the voice of disapproval comes from the political elite.
Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves of St Vincent and the Grenadines has been speaking out in recent times on regional cricket and has let his feelings be known on the issue. His thesis is that the president of the WICB, Mr Dave Cameron is one of the main stumbling blocks and as such must go.
How many other regional political leaders share his views and position is not known?
Neither does the regional political directorate hold any direct position of power over the WICB. But Dr Gonsalves’ echo and refrain across the region cannot be ignored either by the fans, the member boards of the WICB or Mr Cameron and his team.
The lacklustre performance of the players in South Africa recently will not win any friends. The criticisms made against the selection policy not only by fans, Prime Minister Gonsalves and even senior player Chris Gayle clearly highlight that all’s not well.
Then, that albatross hanging around the WICB’s neck following the disastrous end to the abandoned tour of India by the regional team and resulting in a multi-million dollar claim against a money-starved board, will all go against the regional cricket bosses. It is clearly a season of discontent.
Mr Cameron must listen carefully to the messages and do what’s in the best interest of the game and the region, but all the blame cannot be placed at his feet. The players must be more disciplined in their behaviour and attitude on and off the field.
Dr Gonsalves’ suggested purge needs to be more far-reaching.