VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES– Cricket West Indies (CWI) President Dr. Kishore Shallow has underscored the organization’s steadfast commitment to driving comprehensive governance reforms, vowing to do “whatever it takes” to bring the Barbados Cricket Association (BCA) and Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) into alignment with the broader vision for modernization.
Speaking at CWI’s quarterly press conference at the Beachcombers Hotel on Monday, Dr. Shallow addressed the challenges stemming from the absence of the BCA and GCB during a pivotal governance reform meeting on December 6. Their non-attendance disrupted the proceedings, as the lack of a quorum forced the meeting’s adjournment.
“There is a shared commitment from CWI to continue to champion governance reform,” Dr. Shallow stated, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to strengthen the governance structures of the territorial boards.
The proposed reforms, rooted in the recommendations of the Wehby Report, aim to overhaul CWI’s governance framework with key changes, including term limits for leadership roles and a revised governance structure designed to enhance efficiency and transparency.
Widespread support, persistent resistance
While Dr. Shallow celebrated the backing of most regional stakeholders—including independent directors and territorial boards—he acknowledged the resistance from the GCB and BCA. “I can safely say all the territorial boards that attended the meeting on the sixth of December were in full support of governance reform,” he confirmed.
Highlighting broader support, Dr. Shallow noted the endorsement of the Prime Ministerial Sub-Committee on Cricket, a coalition of regional leaders advocating for the proposed changes. “The Prime Ministers too are champions of such change, and we will continue to make efforts in that regard,” he added.
Regarding the GCB and BCA’s objections, Dr. Shallow reiterated CWI’s dedication to ongoing dialogue. “We are going to continue to sensitise those two members who obviously are not in full alignment with the rest of the shareholders. We will do whatever it takes to onboard them with governance reform,” he asserted.
A specific proposal from the BCA to implement a rotational leadership policy was a key point of contention. Dr. Shallow disclosed that the suggestion was thoroughly reviewed by the Governance Committee, chaired by Arjoon Ramlal, and subsequently rejected at both committee and board levels.
The road ahead
“This has not found favor,” Dr. Shallow revealed, dismissing the BCA’s proposal as lacking broader support. “In fact, it is just a minority that has been advocating for this.”
Despite the obstacles, CWI remains unwavering in its pursuit of modernization. Dr. Shallow highlighted the organization’s numerous consultations with stakeholders, underscoring a collective determination to implement reforms that will bolster the governance framework of West Indies cricket.
As the regional cricket body faces ongoing resistance, Dr. Shallow’s declaration to “do whatever it takes” signals an unyielding commitment to the transformational agenda outlined in the Wehby Report.
 President Dr. Kishore Shallow has underscored the organization’s commitment to comprehensive governance reforms,){kind=link}