Follow UsThe President of Cricket West Indies, Kishore Shallow has called for an "emergency meeting" involving past greats after the team was bowled out for just 27 in the third Test against Australia at Sabina Park, losing the contest by 176 runs and conceding the series 3-0.
Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc took 6/9 as West Indies made the second-lowest score in Test history. West Indies just avoided New Zealand's record low of 26, set in 1955, and Shallow said there would be an inquest to review a dismal 3-0 series loss.
“Like every West Indian cricket fan, I felt the pain of our recent Test defeat to Australia. The result hurts deeply, not only because of how we lost, but because of what West Indies cricket has always represented to our people: pride, identity, and possibility,” Kishore said in a statement.
“There will be some sleepless nights ahead for many of us, including the players, who I know feel this loss just as heavily. But while disappointment is natural, we must not allow this moment to define our journey.
West Indies' previous lowest total was the 47 they scored against England in 2004. "We are in a rebuilding phase, steadily investing in the next generation, and reigniting the spirit that has long made West Indies cricket a force in the world," said Kishore.
“Progress is rarely straightforward. It takes time, perseverance, and belief, especially in our most difficult moments. The road ahead will test us, but I have faith in the talent and commitment of our players when they apply themselves.
“We have already seen encouraging signs, particularly with the ball. Our batters are keen, but now must be even more deliberate as they work to improve. Now is not the time to turn away. Now is the time to stand even closer as a people. These are the moments that shape us.”
Kishore said he has invited West Indies greats Clive Lloyd, Viv Richards and Brian Lara to take part in discussions concerning the team's decline which also saw them fail to qualify for the 50-over World Cup in 2023.
“As an immediate step, I have advised the Chair of the Cricket Strategy and Officiating Committee to convene an emergency meeting to review the recent test series against Australia, particularly the final match.
“To strengthen the discussions, I have extended invitations to three of our greatest batsmen ever: Sir Clive Lloyd, Sir Vivian Richards, and Brian Lara. They will join past greats Dr. Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Dr. The Most Honourable Desmond Haynes, Ian Bradshaw, who already serve on the committee.
“There is much work to be done. But we must do it with purpose, and we must do it together.”
(With inputs from AFP)