CWI Plans Major Reforms to Revive West Indies Cricket Amid Critical Challenges

Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced a comprehensive set of immediate and long-term reforms to revitalize cricket in the Caribbean following a series of poor performances, including a historic defeat where the team was bowled out for 27 against Australia. The reforms were recommended by a special cricket strategy and officiating committee composed of former legends like Brian Lara and Clive Lloyd, current leaders, and key stakeholders. The committee identified ten critical challenges such as declining regional tournament quality, deficiencies in skills, underperforming franchise systems, lack of specialist coaching, infrastructure gaps, financial constraints, and inadequate fitness standards. Short-term measures include hiring an internationally proven batting coach, appointing a full-time sports psychologist for the men's team, upgrading the women's team support to full-time, and establishing a state-of-the-art facility at Coolidge Cricket Ground with modern training and rehabilitation infrastructure. Franchise teams will be required to submit Individual Development Plans and adhere to new minimum standards, with player fitness closely monitored via a regional fitness leaderboard. Long-term plans focus on comprehensive franchise reform, standardized academies for youth, completion of a high-performance center in Antigua, improved financial sustainability, and structured mentorship programs connecting current and former players.