St. Kitts and Nevis (WINN)—President of Cricket West Indies Kishore Shallow has announced that he will not seek reelection to the top regional polls following his election to serve in the government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Shallow was among several newcomers to politics who secured seats in the Godwin-Friday administration.
Since the victory, however, there have been mounting calls for him to step down immediately from his CWI role, a matter he addressed in his speech on Sunday evening.
“And so, I know that some of you may be concerned about my recent appointment to cabinet and what it may mean for my continued service as President of Cricket West Indies. Let me be upfront and transparent with you, as I’ve always been. Admittedly, I have thought long and hard about this. My conviction is that the walk ahead requires steady leadership and a commitment to completing the reforms already set in motion. It is for this reason that I will conclude my current term, but with the intention not to seek reelection.”
While acknowledging that it is uncommon in the region for an individual to hold dual roles in government and at CWI, Shallow defended his position by pointing to international examples.
“It is true that my appointment as a minister while simultaneously serving as President of Cricket West Indies may seem slightly uncommon in our region, even though it has happened in other sports before. However, it is not unusual within the global cricket community where several of my colleagues at the International Cricket Council currently serve or have served as ministers or members of parliament. We have therefore conducted comprehensive due diligence to ensure all legal and ethical standards are fully met. While there is no conflict of interest, the legitimate question is whether I can effectively manage both portfolios. Having consulted widely with our board and leadership, I can assure you that I can and will. It is important to note over the years government in our region have been calling for a greater level of engagement with Cricket West Indies. It is fair to say that this very well may be an avenue for collaboration and involvement without being invasive. The presidency of Cricket West Indies is not a salaried role. In other words, it is not a job. It is not in traditional 9-to-5 position, nor is it based at our headquarters in Antigua. We are fortunate to have an experienced CEO in Chris Derring who oversees the organisation’s daily operation with support of over 50 competent full-time staff members. As president, I chair a board, and our direction is shaped collectively by directors representing all members across the region.”
Cricket West Indies has faced intense pressure in recent years, including through a shallow tenure, to implement governance reforms, an issue that remains ongoing.
Outgoing presidents stress that this is an area they remain committed to advancing.
“As I’ve always said, West Indies Cricket has never been a one-man operation, and it should never be. It is a shared responsibility. Therefore, my friends, with clarity about the work still before us, I will use the remainder of the term to complete the reforms we began and to support the development and implementation of our strategic plan until 2027.
And finally, I urge all of us not to be drawn into the voices of a small few who may seek to create division at a time when unity is essential. We are strong together, and this moment calls for collective purpose, steady focus and confidence in our shared future.”
Meanwhile, Shallow commended the senior men’s team for their grit and determination in the recently drawn Test against New Zealand, during which the side produced the highest fourth innings total in the modern era of Test cricket.
“Let me extend heartfelt congratulations to Captain Ruston Trace and the entire Test squad for the remarkable display of determination in the drawn match against New Zealand in Christchurch. It was an indomitable spirit of Justin Graves that powered an exceptional double century, with Kima Roach once again demonstrating the strength and heart emblematic of a true West Indian cricketer.”
