THERE ARE SPECIAL MOMENTS that set a foundation for growth and success.
Student graduations, weddings and even lottery winnings.
These can either be squandered or used to chart a course for even greater achievement.
The recent successes of the West Indies cricket teams should be seen in similar vein. We, unfortunately, have this strange way of tainting our moments of triumph with negativity and vitriol. We even contrived a uniform issue, that the published facts of which show to be nothing more than a red herring to encourage criticism of the WICB.
Some of us may agree with the emotional outburst from the captain and some may not.
I, however, as one who have respected him from his youth days, disagree with his choice of time and place. And I will not be swayed by the notion of most impactful time.
Bravo’s swiping rant lacked decency bandwidth. It was too personal, bitter and n conflict with the high standards of this “Champion”. Does he really want us to believe that he cares more about West Indies cricket than Julian Charles, Joel Garner or Enoch Lewis? I certainly doubt.
My views on the make-up of the board have been previously articulated, and I still respect the democratic process. The clamouring for politicians and others of that ilk to make these decisions is ludicrous at best. All of us want to get from point A to K but we are not willing to make the sacrifices and accept the challenges that must be met an overcome between B and J.
To me, these recent successes make a statement of progress and maybe even a vindication of the purposeful work being done by the board of serious, committed individuals. I have worked and interacted with most of them and, although we did not always agree, they have my respect and trust.
There is an obvious need for bridge building. It is clear that respect between players and Board must be addressed. Unfortunately, many significant persons have chosen to take sides, thereby making it more difficult for honest interaction led by guiding principles and values to take place.
Someone that is mutually respected and is truly unbiased needs to be allowed to bring balance and true professionalism to the table. I have previously expressed the view that one only ever gets what one negotiates. Let that person be the mediator in the much needed discussions.
There is also a need for more financial openness to reduce the misinformation and mistrust that prevails. The public needs to see the relativities among elite players, first class players, youth development and female cricketers.
These are also the board’s responsibility. We dropped from fifth to ninth in the rankings with these elites! We are now not even guaranteed a place in the next World Cup. Sad but true. Our focus must include all levels of cricket development in the region and not just the top group.
I respect the players’ rights to offer their skills worldwide and denounce anyone who seek to affix a mercenary tag. I also agree with the board that retainer contracts should only be offered to those who are available to represent the West Indies as first call. I didn’t hear the exemption cry when Desmond Haynes was made a sacrificial lamb. Rules, they said, are rules.
I further suggest that the respective territories should build on this success, especially in the women’s game. Engage those that are now seen as virtual heroes. Attach each of them to specific schools, to interact which the schoolgirls and work with the sports teachers to coach and to develop teams.
This can lead to improved local tournaments and more competitive regional competitions, at least three annually One-Day, T20 and Under-19. We, as world champions must establish a strategic focus if we are to maintain the altitude.
Success must mean something.
Jeff Broomes is an experienced educator, principal and community organiser who also served as vice-president of the BCA and director of the WICB. Email: [email protected]
