Sport Minister urges WICB and West Indies Players to find Common Ground

Sport Minister, the Honourable Olivia ‘Babsy’ Grange, has urged the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) and players to find a common ground on which trust and confidence can be built in order for the West Indies  team to return to the pinnacle of world cricket.

Speaking at the welcome home reception for Jamaican members of the West Indies cricket team at the Norman Manley International Airport on Monday, April 5, 2016, Minister Grange said, “Like good parents, the WICB must reposition itself in such a way that its players see the governing body as its chief guardian rather than its Achilles heel,” adding that “the players too must also be cognizant that not receiving best wishes prior to an exam doesn’t mean your parents are uncaring or want you to fail.”

Minister Grange stated that in order to prevent the reoccurrence of seemingly perpetual disputes, the WICB and the players must address the issues and necessary measures be put in place.

In congratulating players Marlon Samuels and Jerome Taylor upon their arrival, the Minister said “Marlon, you are a world class cricketer and proven match winner,” while jokingly added “continue to speak with your bat my son and say nothing else.”

In acknowledging the contribution of Jerome Taylor, she said “You might have played only one game in this tournament but as a veteran campaigner your guidance and support to the younger bowlers was crucial.”

The Minister also used the opportunity to commend everyone who played a role in the team’s victory. “The West Indies Cricket Board, the players, the coaching and management staff, the fans (and dare I say our critics too) all contributed to this remarkable and historic achievement.”

Minister Grange said she hopes this World T20 championship win is the start of the West Indies renaissance.