In a significant development for Caribbean cricket governance, Dr. Kishore Shallow has officially declared his intention to maintain his presidency of Cricket West Indies (CWI) while simultaneously serving as Minister of Tourism and Maritime Affairs for St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The 41-year-old administrator, who secured his parliamentary seat on November 27 and assumed ministerial duties on December 3, addressed mounting speculation regarding potential resignation from his cricket leadership role.
Following extensive deliberation, Shallow communicated his definitive decision through radio station Isports95.5FM on December 4, later elaborating on December 7 that he had contemplated the matter thoroughly. “My conviction is that the work ahead requires steady leadership and a commitment to completing the reforms already set in motion,” Shallow stated, confirming he would complete his current three-year term but would not seek reelection.
The CWI president acknowledged the unusual nature of holding both positions concurrently within the Caribbean context but emphasized precedent within international cricket governance. He revealed that several colleagues at the International Cricket Council (ICC) currently or previously held governmental or parliamentary positions, normalizing such dual responsibilities in sports administration.
Addressing potential concerns, Shallow detailed that CWI conducted comprehensive due diligence to ensure full compliance with legal and ethical standards. While acknowledging no conflict of interest exists, he confronted the practical question of effective portfolio management. “Having consulted widely with our board and leadership, I can assure you that I can and will,” he asserted.
Shallow positioned his unique situation as potentially beneficial for regional collaboration, noting: “Governments in our region have been calling for greater engagement with CWI. This very well may be an avenue for collaboration without being invasive.” He further clarified that his presidential role is strategic rather than administrative, emphasizing that operational control rests with CEO Chris Dehring and over 50 full-time staff based in Antigua.
The unpaid nature of the CWI presidency distinguishes it from traditional employment, allowing Shallow to focus on chairing the board while ministerial duties occupy his professional focus. He stressed that decision-making at CWI remains collective, asserting: “West Indies Cricket has never been a one-man operation, and it should never be.”
Looking forward, Shallow committed to completing his administration’s reform agenda and implementing the organization’s Strategic Plan through 2027. He issued a call for unity, warning against divisive voices during this critical period for regional cricket.
Earlier in his address, Shallow congratulated the West Indies team for their fighting draw in the first Test against New Zealand, specifically praising Justin Greaves’ double century and Kemar Roach’s determination. While commending Shai Hope’s pivotal 140-run innings, he expressed overall dissatisfaction with team performance and reiterated the need for financial restructuring within CWI.