In a surprising move, Cricket West Indies (CWI) has excluded top T20 player Nicholas Pooran and former captain Jason Holder from their list of contracted players, even as the organization introduced multi-year contracts for the first time in its history.
The decision comes as part of a ground-breaking contract announcement following a new four-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed in January 2024 between CWI and the West Indies Players Association (WIPA).
Fifteen senior men’s players have been awarded contracts, with six receiving multi-year deals based on their performances during the 2023-2024 evaluation period. However, the absence of Pooran and Holder—both pivotal figures in West Indies cricket—has raised eyebrows, especially given their substantial contributions in recent years.
The men awarded multi-year contracts are: Shai Hope, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Jayden Seales.
First international contract
In addition, Roston Chase has received his first international contract for the upcoming season. The other men’s players on one-year contracts include: Alick Athanaze, Kraigg Brathwaite, Keacy Carty, Joshua Da Silva, Kavem Hodge, Akeal Hosein, Romario Shepherd, Rovman Powell.
Similarly, for the women’s team, three players have secured multi-year deals: Hayley Matthews (Captain), Stafanie Taylor, and Shemaine Campbelle,
The remaining 12 senior women’s players, including Deandra Dottin and Shamilia Connell, have been awarded one-year contracts.
CWI Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe emphasized the organization’s commitment to supporting regional players, highlighting the importance of these contracts in building confidence and clarity for both parties. However, the exclusion of Pooran and Holder is expected to generate discussions about the future of these key players within the West Indies setup.
