Mumbai: West Indies cricket, once a powerhouse that ruled world cricket through the 1970s and 1980s, continues to struggle in the modern era. Following a 3-0 whitewash against Australia and a crushing innings-and-140-run defeat to India in Ahmedabad, the team’s downward spiral has left fans and legends deeply concerned.
In an attempt to address the crisis, Cricket West Indies (CWI) recently convened an emergency meeting with former greats and administrators. Among those leading the discussion was batting legend Brian Lara, who emphasized that the problem lies not just in the lack of financial support, but in the diminishing passion to represent the Caribbean side.
Speaking at the CEAT Cricket Ratings Awards in Mumbai, Lara said, “If you want to get things done, you have to have the capital to do it. That’s important. But I want to urge Roston Chase and the other players — do they truly have cricket at heart? Do they really want to play for West Indies? That’s the most important thing, because passion finds a way.”
Lara pointed out that when West Indies dominated world cricket under legends like Sir Vivian Richards, the facilities were nowhere near today’s standards. “We didn’t have better pitches or fancy setups. What drove us was the pride of wearing that maroon cap. I urge the youngsters to realise this is a privilege and an honour that once defined Caribbean pride,” he added.
A struggle for batting consistency
Batting remains the West Indies’ biggest concern. Their recent collapses — 162 and 146 all out in Ahmedabad — have exposed a lack of resilience. Young talents such as Alick Athanaze have shown promise, but inconsistency remains an issue.
Lara believes that the modern selection system, which often prioritizes potential over proven domestic records, may be contributing to the problem. “If a player is picked on potential alone without the numbers to back it, it becomes difficult at the international level. Players today seem to mature later. Either you invest in them for the long term or go for seasoned names like Jason Holder,” Lara explained.
The West Indies legend also recalled how, in his playing days, patience and performance were non-negotiable for selection. “You had to dominate domestic cricket before getting a Test cap. I myself waited, carried drinks, and learned the game from the sidelines before breaking in. That period helped players mature mentally and technically,” he said.
While acknowledging that generational talents like Sachin Tendulkar, Shahid Afridi, and Sir Garfield Sobers were ready as teenagers, Lara insisted that such players are rare. “Not everyone is blessed with that kind of early brilliance. Most players need time, experience, and hunger to grow,” he concluded.
As West Indies cricket continues to rebuild, Lara’s message is clear — financial aid and infrastructure can help, but rekindling the passion to play for the maroon jersey remains the true key to revival.
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