CWI President Announces Lara, Lloyd, and Richards to Play Active Roles in Cricket Development’s Next Stage

BARBADOS: Following the men’s team’s disappointing performance in the recent home Test series against Australia, Cricket West Indies (CWI) held an emergency meeting on Tuesday, inviting former players Brian Lara, Clive Lloyd, and Viv Richards to participate.

In the series’ final Test, the West Indies were bowled out for a mere 26 runs while pursuing a 204-run target against Australia, marking their second-lowest innings total in Test history.

Australia secured a decisive 176-run victory due to the batting collapse, completing a clean sweep of the three-match series and defeating the former ICC World Test Championship (WTC) titleholders.

As a result, the CWI has enlisted the assistance of the legendary trio of Lara, Richards, and Lloyd. They will collaborate with Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Desmond Haynes, and Ian Bradshaw from the Cricket Strategy and Officiating Committee to assess the national men’s team’s recent showings.

CWI President Dr. Kishore Shallow admitted that the team’s poor performance in the recent home Test series would lead to concern but stressed that they are currently rebuilding and urged people to be patient.

Shallow stated, “Like every West Indian cricket supporter, I felt the sting of our recent Test defeat to Australia. Many of us, including the players who I know are feeling this loss just as heavily, will have some sleepless nights ahead.”
“But while disappointment is natural, we must not allow this moment to define our journey. 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.
“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.”

Shallow also noted that the legends’ involvement in evaluating the team’s performance would not be just ceremonial, and they will actively participate in the next phase of cricket development.

Shallow added, “These are men who helped define our golden eras, and their perspectives will be invaluable. We intend for this gathering to result in tangible, actionable recommendations.”

“Consistent with my message over the last weeks, this is a moment that calls for collaboration, not division. We need everyone on board: fans, players, coaches, legends, and administrators, if we are to truly move forward. There is much work to be done. But we must do it with purpose, and we must do it together,” he concluded.