BARBADOS CRICKET has been enjoying good times, and once again the local boys are kings of the Caribbean. They won the WICB Regional Super 50 final against Jamaica at the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua on Saturday night.
The victory is heartening for Barbadians since it comes at a time of much uncertainty in the country fuelled by our troublesome economic circumstances. The outstanding performance by the Barbados Pride team is an inspiration to a nation that needs to have a similar focus in dealing with its myriad challenges.
The leadership exhibited by captain Jason Holder shows the importance of taking control and leading from the front.
Holder’s role with both the ball and the bat and, more importantly, his on-field directives, would have inspired not only his players but the many fans who followed the matches with keen interest. Of course, not every decision he took would have been correct or found favour with even the most patriotic Barbados fan. The point is that he had a game plan and forged ahead, having got his players fully on board.
This is perhaps why even in the final match against Jamaica when Barbados’ batting faltered, Holder, with the support of Man Of The Match Shai Hope, showed what it is to not only dig in, but be determined to come out on top despite difficult circumstances.
There is a lesson from this approach by the Barbados Pride for the entire country. We must not give up despite the hurdles we face because of our economic troubles, but must be willing to adopt an approach which will redound to the benefit of the majority.
The same discipline our cricketers displayed on the field to record the many victories throughout the competition, and the sheer determination to pull off victory, should be applied in all other spheres of endeavour.
The fiscal problem we face cannot be wished away, and action must be taken to ensure the economy, and by extension the country, weathers the storm.
The Democratic Labour Party administration should recognise that the constant comments, alternative views and even criticisms of its fiscal and monetary policies have nothing to do with personal likes or dislikes, but are the product of a strong desire for the very best for Barbados.
A restless public wants to see the political directorate exhibit the same calming influence shown by Holder, Hope and others in the Barbados Pride team. Given the gravity of what is at stake for the nation, the determination to turn around the economic situation must be paramount. Our present problems are serious – but not insurmountable.
Congratulations to the Barbados Pride team for their outstanding performance. They have shown us the way.