15 Jul, 2025 | 10:02 PM

Cricket West Indies (CWI) has called an emergency strategy meeting in the wake of a devastating 3-0 Test series whitewash at the hands of Australia, highlighted by a historic low of 27 all out in the third Test in Kingston.

CWI president Dr. Kishore Shallow admitted that the recent performances have left the players, fans, and administration reeling, describing the defeat as a moment that would cause "sleepless nights" across the Caribbean cricket community.

"Like every West Indian cricket fan, I felt the pain of our recent Test defeat to Australia," Shallow said. "There will be some sleepless nights ahead for many of us, including the players, who I know feel this loss just as heavily."

As part of the response, CWI has extended invitations to West Indies greats Brian Lara, Clive Lloyd, and Sir Vivian Richards to join an emergency session of the Cricket Strategy and Officiating Committee. They will work alongside Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Desmond Haynes, and Ian Bradshaw to assess the team's current trajectory and formulate a roadmap for recovery.

The third Test in Kingston saw the West Indies collapse for 27 in just 14.3 overs — the second-lowest total in Test history, behind only New Zealand's 26 in 1955. It also marked the first time a team recorded seven ducks in a single Test innings. The top six West Indian batters managed just six runs combined — the lowest by any top six in the history of the format.

Despite the humiliating loss, Shallow urged patience, emphasizing that the team is in a rebuilding phase. He pointed to glimpses of promise, particularly from the bowling attack, and encouraged greater resolve from the batting unit.

"We are in a rebuilding phase, steadily investing in the next generation, and reigniting the spirit that has long made West Indies cricket a force in the world," he said. "Progress is rarely straightforward. It takes time, perseverance, and belief, especially in our most difficult moments."

Shallow emphasized that the involvement of legends such as Lara, Lloyd, and Richards would be far more than symbolic. "These are men who helped define our golden eras, and their perspectives will be invaluable. We intend for this gathering to result in tangible, actionable recommendations."

In a call for unity, Shallow urged the entire cricketing ecosystem—fans, players, coaches, and administrators—to rally together.

"This is a moment that calls for collaboration, not division. There is much work to be done. But we must do it with purpose, and we must do it together."

The West Indies will have little time to regroup, as they prepare for a five-match T20I series against Australia beginning July 21, followed by a white-ball series against Pakistan in August.

Ask ChatGPT