Caribbean Cricket Fans Urged To Stand By West Indies Despite World Cup Elimination

News Americas, St. JOHN, Antigua, Fri. July 7, 2023: Caribbean cricket fans have been urged to stand by the West Indies cricket team even after their elimination from the upcoming International Cricket Council (ICC) World Cup in India. The two-time world champions failed to secure a spot in the tournament after missing out on qualification during the ongoing qualifying tournament in Zimbabwe.

In the group stage, the West Indies suffered defeats against the host nation and Netherlands, followed by another loss to Scotland in the opening game of the Super Six stage, ultimately resulting in their elimination. Although they will face Sri Lanka in a game of academic interest, the team’s journey in the World Cup has come to an end.

Chris Greaves of Scotland celebrates the wicket of Jason Holder of West Indies with team mate Matthew Cross during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier Zimbabwe 2023 Super 6 match between Scotland and West Indies at Harare Sports Club on July 01, 2023 in Harare, Zimbabwe. (Photo by Alex Davidson-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)

During the conclusion of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) summit, Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit addressed the comments made by Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley on social media. Rowley described the West Indies’ performance against Netherlands as the “worst cricket match ever played by a West Indies team” and called for an end to demoralizing embarrassments.

Skerrit revealed that regional leaders met with the President of West Indies Cricket, Kishore Shallow, and agreed to further discussions on collaboration. Skerrit also announced the appointment of Prime Minister Rowley as the new chairman of the Prime Ministerial subcommittee, emphasizing the need to work together to improve Caribbean cricket and restore its former glory.

Despite the disappointment, Skerrit stressed the importance of rallying around the West Indies cricket team. He acknowledged the passion and aversion to losing among Caribbean fans, and encouraged everyone to support the regional team during their upcoming Test series against India, with Dominica hosting the first match.