West Indies cricket, once a symbol of regional pride and global dominance, is now grappling with a profound crisis. Recent disclosures by Chris Dehring, CEO of Cricket West Indies (CWI), have shed light on the financial struggles and tough decisions confronting the sport in the region. Among the most significant moves is the exclusion of developmental teams—Combined Campuses and Colleges (CCC) and the West Indies Academy—from upcoming professional tournaments, including the 2025 CG United Super50 and the 2026 four-day first-class competition. These teams have historically served as vital platforms for nurturing young talent, making their removal a painful yet necessary step in light of financial constraints. Dehring’s candid remarks during a press conference in Antigua underscored the precarious financial state of CWI. Despite a revenue boost from hosting the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, the board’s income remains insufficient to sustain long-term development. The financial model, heavily reliant on lucrative tours by cricketing powerhouses like India and England, leaves little room for profitability from tours by other nations. In 2025, West Indies will host Sri Lanka, New Zealand, and Pakistan—tours that are unlikely to generate substantial revenue from broadcast rights or ticket sales. Yet, these fixtures are non-negotiable under the ICC’s Future Tours Programme. The financial strain has also led to a reduction in tournaments. The upcoming CG United Super50 will feature only six teams, a stark contrast to previous editions that included developmental squads. Dehring emphasized the need for a long-term vision aligned with the board’s financial realities. However, the challenges extend beyond finances. West Indies cricket is plagued by deeper structural issues, including inconsistent governance, legal disputes between players and the board, underinvestment in grassroots development, and a fragmented domestic system. The region’s unique diversity, while a strength, complicates efforts to unify six territories under a single cricketing umbrella. The evolving global cricketing landscape further compounds these challenges. Revenue streams now hinge on broadcast rights, sponsorships, and commercial partnerships, with sponsors demanding competitive results to enhance their brands. To remain relevant, West Indies cricket must adapt swiftly, reducing its reliance on big tours and embracing innovative strategies to boost revenue. The path forward demands collective action from CWI, regional governments, sponsors, and fans. Greater financial transparency, innovative revenue-raising measures, and a commitment to on-field competitiveness are essential. The cricketing community’s enduring passion is being tested, with fans questioning the dedication of both players and the board. West Indies cricket stands at a critical juncture, requiring honesty, vision, and decisive action to reclaim its legacy. While the challenges are daunting, the hope for resurgence remains alive. Embracing change and rallying behind this mission will be crucial to restoring West Indies cricket to its former glory.
分类： sports
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Delwayne Delaney sets ambitious vision for Conaree Football Club
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – Delwayne Delaney, recently re-elected as President of Conaree Football Club (CFC), has outlined an ambitious vision to elevate the club’s performance and reputation both locally and internationally. Following a successful election on October 2, 2025, Delaney expressed confidence in the newly formed executive team, which he described as a blend of youth, experience, and gender diversity. He believes this dynamic leadership will drive better management and on-field success. Delaney emphasized the importance of integrating sports and business, a priority that led to the appointment of young businessman Irvin Daniel as Vice President. ‘We want to showcase the club in a way that marries sports and business,’ Delaney stated. Recognizing the financial challenges faced by many clubs in St. Kitts and Nevis, he highlighted the need for sustainable revenue streams to support player development and international exposure. Another key focus is youth development, with the club already partnering with schools to nurture talent through grassroots programs. Delaney also stressed the importance of preparing players for life beyond football, offering training in skills like carpentry and farming. ‘We want to ensure that these players are given the opportunity to excel, both on and off the field,’ he said. With a clear vision for growth, Delaney aims to position CFC as a dominant force in regional and international football while fostering holistic development for its players.
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OPINION: Obsession with getting lucrative IPL contracts Causing West Indies batting Woes
The West Indies cricket team continues to struggle with its batting performance across all formats—Test, One Day Internationals (ODIs), and T20s. Historically, the region produced legendary batsmen who honed their skills through extensive first-class cricket, often in competitive environments like the English County circuit. However, the modern era has seen a dramatic shift in priorities among West Indian cricketers, driven by the lucrative allure of T20 franchise leagues such as the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Today, young cricketers are less inclined to invest years in perfecting their craft through traditional first-class cricket, which offers modest financial rewards compared to the millions available in T20 leagues. This disparity has led to a focus on developing skills tailored to T20 cricket—such as aggressive hitting and high strike rates—rather than the patience and technique required for Test cricket. As a result, West Indian batsmen often struggle to maintain consistency in Test matches, where an average of over 40 runs per innings is considered the benchmark for quality.
The financial incentives of T20 cricket have fundamentally altered the mindset of West Indian players. Many now prioritize becoming ‘finishers’ or ‘six-hitters’ in T20 leagues, where quick runs and flashy performances can secure lucrative contracts. This approach, however, has eroded the traditional batting discipline that once defined West Indian cricket. The reckless ‘whoofing’ and ‘swiping’ seen in T20 matches have become the norm, making it difficult for players to transition to the more measured demands of Test cricket.
To address this crisis, cricket administrators and coaches must reconsider the incentive structures that drive player behavior. Introducing performance-based premiums for Test cricket, such as bonuses for centuries or high averages, could help bridge the financial gap between Test and T20 cricket. Additionally, offering post-retirement career support, such as coaching or broadcasting opportunities, could make Test cricket a more attractive long-term option for players.
In T20 cricket, a more strategic batting approach could also be implemented to reduce reckless shot-making while still allowing players to achieve the high scores needed to secure franchise contracts. For example, coaches could set specific scoring targets for different phases of the game, encouraging batsmen to play responsibly in the early overs and unleash their aggression only in the final stages.
Ultimately, the West Indies cricket team’s batting woes are a symptom of broader systemic issues. Without addressing the financial and structural disparities between Test and T20 cricket, the region will continue to struggle to produce the kind of world-class batsmen it once did. A balanced approach that values both formats equally is essential to revive West Indian cricket’s former glory.
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Cricket West Indies announces immediate reforms to strengthen cricket following emergency meeting
In a decisive move to address the declining performance of West Indies cricket, Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced a sweeping set of reforms following an emergency meeting of the Cricket Strategy and Officiating Committee. The meeting, held in August, was prompted by a series of disappointing results, including a historic defeat to Australia in July. Key stakeholders, including cricket legends Brian Lara and Sir Clive Lloyd, current captains Shai Hope and Roston Chase, and former players, convened to identify and address the critical challenges facing the sport in the region. The Committee pinpointed ten major issues, ranging from the declining quality of regional tournaments to inadequate infrastructure and financial constraints. In response, CWI has outlined both immediate and long-term actions aimed at revitalizing West Indies cricket. Short-term measures include the recruitment of specialist coaches, the development of a High-Performance Centre at Coolidge Cricket Ground, and the implementation of stricter accountability standards for franchise teams. Long-term initiatives focus on creating a unified National Cricket Development Framework, reforming the franchise system, and establishing standardized academies for young players. CWI’s Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, emphasized the organization’s commitment to raising standards and providing future generations with the necessary tools and mentorship to succeed. CWI plans to provide regular updates to stakeholders and fans as these reforms are implemented across the regional cricket system.
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School sports are underway, but plenty of room for improvement
The 2025-2026 school sports season officially began on September 30 with the launch of the Under-19 basketball tournament at the Beausejour Gymnasium, organized by the Ministry of Youth Development and Sports. The opening matches saw impressive performances from defending champions Sir Arthur Lewis Community College (SALCC) and Soufrière Comprehensive in Group A, while St Mary’s College (SMC) and Leon Hess Comprehensive secured victories in Group B.
SALCC dominated their match against Castries Comprehensive Secondary School (CCSS) with a commanding 78-39 win. Joel Desrivieres led the charge with 24 points, six rebounds, and four steals, supported by Malik Dennis, who contributed 18 points, eight rebounds, and seven steals. Despite the loss, CCSS’s Meshach Duboulary shone with 20 points, 12 rebounds, and three steals, while David Chandler added nine points and an impressive 16 rebounds.
In another Group A clash, Soufrière Comprehensive triumphed over Entrepot Secondary with a 55-30 victory. Cordin Jones was the standout player with 23 points, while Alex Longville and Chaz Alexander provided solid support. Entrepot Secondary’s Imani Gonzague managed 12 points and five steals, but the team was outrebounded 22-15.
Group B saw St Mary’s College deliver a crushing 67-15 win against Vieux Fort Comprehensive Secondary School. Jabarie Archibald led the charge with 21 points, eight rebounds, and two blocks, supported by Nezan Lewis and Requeimi Pierre. Cyrilon Cyris was the top performer for Vieux Fort, contributing eight points, eight rebounds, and six steals.
Leon Hess Comprehensive also secured a decisive 61-16 victory over Patricia D James Secondary, last year’s third-place finishers. Sage Lewis led the team with 21 points and seven rebounds, supported by Christopher Thakur and Ahlil Cyril. Rushawn Williams was the standout for Patricia D James, scoring nine points and adding four rebounds, two steals, and three blocks.
The tournament, which includes Corinth Secondary, Choiseul Secondary, Micoud Secondary, and Beanefield Comprehensive, will feature a total of 38 matches and conclude on November 4.
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Nuh Reely forges ahead in Mayberry marlin tournament
PORTLAND, Jamaica — The Mayberry Superstars of Port Antonio International Marlin Tournament is in full swing at the Errol Flynn Marina, with Nuh Reely maintaining a strong lead. The team has secured five marlin releases so far, closely followed by Brac Rebel and Never Say Never, each with three releases. Other notable participants include Still Keepin it Jiggy with two releases, while Wreckless, Daddy’s Dream, Just2Bad, Integrity, and defending champion Safe Passage have each released one marlin. On the latest day of competition, Never Say Never released three marlin, while Nuh Reely, Pipe Dreams, and Still Keepin it Jiggy each released two. Brac Rebel, Daddy’s Dream, Jus2Bad, Integrity, and Safe Passage also contributed with one release each. The tournament will continue at 7:00 am on Saturday, with fishing concluding at 3:00 pm. The prize-giving ceremony is scheduled to begin at 7:00 pm, marking the culmination of this thrilling event.
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Semenyo double fires Bournemouth up to second in Premier League
In a thrilling Premier League encounter at the Vitality Stadium, Bournemouth staged a remarkable late comeback to defeat Fulham 3-1, with Antoine Semenyo emerging as the hero with a brace. The match, played under challenging weather conditions due to Storm Amy, saw Fulham take the lead in the 70th minute through Ryan Sessegnon, who capitalized on a slick one-two with Samuel Chukwueze to fire past Bournemouth goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic. However, Semenyo sparked the Cherries’ resurgence with a stunning solo effort, dribbling past Timothy Castagne and slotting the ball through the legs of Fulham keeper Bernd Leno. Justin Kluivert then equalized with a sensational long-range strike, assisted by Semenyo, before the Ghanaian forward sealed the victory in stoppage time with a clinical finish on the counter-attack. The win propelled Bournemouth to second place in the league, just one point behind leaders Liverpool, while Fulham remained in 11th with eight points from seven games.
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‘WIN AND YOU’RE IN’
The Gold Cup, a celebrated handicap event in Jamaica, stands as a testament to the legacy of the renowned trainer Philip Feanny. This year’s edition, contested over 7 furlongs (1,400m), promises to be a riveting spectacle, with half of the 10-horse field holding genuine winning prospects. The stakes are further elevated as the victor secures a coveted spot in December’s Mouttet Mile, one of the most prestigious races in the region. The Jamaica Observer’s Supreme Racing Guide offers a detailed analysis of the contenders, each vying for glory in this $2.5-million Graded Stakes/Open Allowance contest. Among the entrants, Supernatural Power emerges as a formidable force, boasting five wins from seven starts and a recent victory clocking 1:25.0 for 7 furlongs. With jockey Dick Cardenas, who recently celebrated his 800th win in Jamaica, in the saddle, she is a serious threat. Funcaandun, the reigning Horse of the Year and last year’s Gold Cup champion, carries top weight but remains a strong contender with his pedigree and form. Legacy Isle, with four wins from seven starts, and Rideallday, unbeaten this season, also pose significant challenges. Meanwhile, Fearless Force and Pack Plays, despite their lighter weights, are unlikely to make a significant impact. Desert of Malibu, returning from a scratch, and Tiz Tok, a once highly-rated horse, round out the field, each with their own narratives but facing uphill battles. The Gold Cup is not just a race; it’s a celebration of equine talent and a precursor to even greater achievements in the Mouttet Mile.
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Midnight Flight carries Cardenas to 800th victory
On September 27, 2025, Caymanas Park witnessed a historic moment as jockey Dick Cardenas secured his 800th career victory in Jamaica. Riding Midnight Flight, trained by Byron Davis, Cardenas triumphed in the ninth race, a three-year-old and upward Claiming event over 5 furlongs, finishing 1½ lengths ahead in 59.3 seconds. This milestone marked a significant achievement in Cardenas’s illustrious career, which began in 2008 with his first win aboard St Bess, trained by Percival Hussey, at odds of 19-1.
Reflecting on his journey, Cardenas expressed heartfelt gratitude, acknowledging the support of owners, trainers, and grooms. “It wasn’t easy to win 800 races. I worked very hard for this, and I am very happy to achieve this milestone at Caymanas Park,” he told The Supreme Racing Guide. Cardenas, who considers Jamaica his second home, also shared his ambition to reach 1,000 wins in the country, having already surpassed 1,000 victories globally, including over 300 in his native Panama and more than 100 in the US.
Cardenas’s career highlights include his Triple Crown win with Mark My Word in 2010, a standout moment among his numerous Classic victories. His success extended beyond Jamaica, with notable wins at prestigious US tracks such as Gulfstream Park, Churchill Downs, and Keeneland. Currently ranked 10th on Caymanas Park’s all-time jockey winners’ list, Cardenas remains driven, eyeing further milestones with unwavering determination.
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BRINGING THE HEAT!
Norman Powell, the 2019 NBA champion with the Toronto Raptors, is gearing up for his 11th season in the league, now as a key player for the Miami Heat. After being traded from the Los Angeles Clippers in July, Powell is determined to carry forward the momentum he gained while representing Jamaica’s national basketball team this summer. The NBA season is scheduled to commence on October 21, marking Powell’s second debut in months following his pivotal role in helping Jamaica qualify for the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup qualifiers in August. Born in the U.S. to a Jamaican father, Powell has become one of the most prominent figures in Jamaican basketball. His standout performance in the 80-76 overtime victory against Costa Rica, where he scored a game-high 34 points, was instrumental in securing Jamaica’s historic qualification. Powell described his experience with the national team as transformative, deepening his connection to his Jamaican heritage. He expressed his excitement about the overwhelming support from the Jamaican and Caribbean communities, which he hadn’t anticipated. Powell also highlighted the benefits of the FIBA-style play, which he believes will enhance his performance with the Heat. The physicality and intensity of international basketball have prepared him well for the upcoming NBA season. Powell is also looking forward to engaging more with the Jamaican community in Miami, home to the second-largest Jamaican population in the U.S. He plans to visit Jamaica more frequently to contribute to the development of basketball on the island. Last season, Powell averaged a career-high 21.8 points per game with the Clippers but missed out on an All-Star selection. This season, he aims to not only earn that recognition but also help the Heat become a more competitive team. The Heat, who finished the 2024/25 regular season with a 37-45 record and were swept in the first round of the playoffs, are looking to Powell to be a driving force in their quest for championship contention.