CWI President warns of ‘zero tolerance’ on integrity breaches

ST. JOHN'S, Antigua:

Even as Cricket West Indies (CWI) president Dr Kishore Shallow extended congratulations to the Guyana Harpy Eagles after they captured their third successive West Indies Championship, he has made it clear that there will be a zero tolerance on integrity breaches.

The Harpy Eagles won the title after their match against the Trinidad and Tobago Red Force ended in a draw on Saturday, to take home the top prize of US$250,000.

However, in their final round match against T&T, Kevlon Anderson and Veerasammy Permaul were found guilty of altering the condition of the ball.

Anderson was subsequently fined 90 per cent of his match fee, while Permaul was fined 75 per cent.

In a statement issued yesterday, Shallow made it clear that CWI maintains a strict policy on integrity.

"While we celebrate the success of the season, I want to remind players that CWI holds the integrity of the game in the highest regard. There is zero tolerance for conduct that undermines the spirit of cricket and brings the game into disrepute.

"The legacy of West Indies cricket has always been built on talent, pride, and integrity, and we are committed to upholding our core values," Shallow said.

LAUDED CHAMPIONS

Despite the incident, Shallow lauded the defending champions for their consistency, discipline, and excellence throughout the season.

"On behalf of CWI, I offer sincere congratulations to the Guyana Harpy Eagles on their remarkable achievement.

"Winning back-to-back titles is no small feat, and their undefeated run this season is a testament to the leadership of captain Tevin Imlach and the collective effort of the players and coaching staff," Shallow said.

The CWI president said he was also pleased with the high standard of play during the tournament.

"We are equally encouraged by the overall standard of play across the tournament.

"The emergence of new talent, the development of our fast bowlers, and the improved application of our batters show promising signs that align with our long-term vision for West Indies cricket, particularly in the Test format," Shallow added.

ONLINE VIEWERSHIP

He said the competition had seen increased online viewership, while rejecting the notion that the longer format of the game was dying.

"There has been a prevailing narrative that the four-day format is in decline. However, a view of the data suggests otherwise," Shallow maintained.

"This year's tournament was widely viewed, and the record-breaking online engagement demonstrates that there is still a strong, passionate fanbase for red ball cricket.

"The viewership numbers we saw this season indicate a deep connection with the longer format, showing that it remains a vital and relevant part of the cricketing landscape," he further added.

"The growing viewership is a sign that fans continue to appreciate the tactical, patient nature of four-day cricket. As we move forward, Cricket West Indies is committed to further strengthening the Test format, ensuring that our players are equipped to compete at the highest level internationally."

- CMC