Follow UsWest Indies head coach Daren Sammy has said that "justice must be served" after a West Indies cricketer was accused of rape, sexual assault, harassment, and unwanted advances by at least 11 women, as reported by the Guyana-based Kaieteur News last week. However, no formal charges have been laid against the player so far.
“We’re all aware of what’s been going on in the media. I’m very close to my players. I’ve had conversations with them, making sure their mental space is good,” Sammy was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo ahead of the second Test against Australia, starting on July 3 (Thursday).
“One thing I can say is that we believe in justice. We are a community that believes justice must be served. However, there’s a process. We will continue to support in whatever way we can to ensure that due process is followed. As a cricketing board, and for me as the head coach, I want justice for everyone.
"But, as of now, these are all allegations. And we understand the justice system—things must be allowed to take their proper course.”
West Indies were also on the receiving end of some questionable decisions by the TV umpire during the first Test in Barbados. Adrian Holdstock served as the TV umpire and faced criticism - Sammy included - for his decision-making on several DRS appeals. As a result, Sammy was fined 15 percent of his match fee and handed one demerit point.
“I said I wouldn’t want my players to attend that press conference because of the questions I believed would be directed at them. I strongly stand by what I said. We've since had further conversations (with the officials). They’ve clarified some things, and there has even been an admission of error. That was in Barbados, and now we’re in Grenada, so we’ve moved on,” Sammy said.
“I don’t hold grudges. I said what I said based on what I observed. I’ve been punished for it. I honestly wish Adrian all the best. We’re all human. I have nothing against the umpires. I really hope he has an excellent game (as an on-field umpire).”