The year 1996 was a remarkable year for sports. The cricket World Cup, Olympics Games, European football championships, and Chicago Bulls’ victory with a record-breaking 72 wins in the NBA basketball season ignited my passion for sports journalism and public relations. This experience made it evident to me that the complexities of the “West Indies selection” are unparalleled in global sports. It is no longer a matter of relying on clichés; instead, it comes down to the subjective opinions of selectors, and Caribbean people should not expect West Indies teams to achieve unanimous agreement.

In contrast, it is relatively easy for myself and many knowledgeable sports fans to watch NBA teams, English Premier League teams, international cricket teams, or teams in the FIFA World Cup and determine the best starting lineups. While these teams still generate discussion among the media and fans regarding player selection, it does not reach the level of turmoil seen in West Indies selection since the emergence of T20 cricket leagues in 2009. Chosen West Indies teams no longer receive 90-100% support from all stakeholders.

Based on my observations of the Cricket West Indies (CWI) from 2019-2023, as well as my time in sports media from 2010-2019, I have come to the unfortunate realization that the modern dynamics of international cricket make it nearly impossible to fix the issues within the “Caribbean cricket” ecosystem. Whether the quasi-national “West Indies” construct is maintained or broken up voluntarily or by market forces, the fundamental principles of global sports, such as selecting the best team, should not be difficult for West Indies cricket to accomplish.

However, the reality is that selectors do not objectively know who the best West Indies XIs are, and they currently cannot select teams that will receive unanimous media and fan support. The hypothetical XIs provided may have been widely accepted under perfect circumstances, but knowledgeable West Indies observers understand that these teams will never take the field.

In terms of general selection problems, the role of “selectors” no longer suits the unique dynamics of West Indies cricket’s multi-national structure. The previously implemented “selection review” task force during the Ricky Skerritt administration has unfortunately not been able to resolve this issue. The breakdown in trust in the West Indies selection process since 2009 prompted the need for such a task force, as acknowledged by Caribbean cricket media and fans.

Multiple individuals, including Clive Lloyd, Desmond Haynes, Roger Harper, Clyde Butts, and Courtney Brown, have held the polarizing role of chairman of selectors since 2009, but none have led to improvements in West Indies results. The current presence of two selectors from Barbados, Desmond Haynes and Roland Butcher, exacerbates feelings of insularity and bias in selection. Despite potential good intentions, their continued presence is unsustainable.

Furthermore, the clash between coaches and selectors/administrators over player selection is a recurring issue. The use of retainer contracts to develop and reward younger cricketers is overshadowed by the selection of senior players who underperform and have no contention to play for West Indies. This contributes to the decline of West Indies cricket, as highlighted by Daren Ganga.

To address these issues, the West Indies should consider adopting the English system, where the coach is empowered to be a selector with the assistance of scouts from various nations. This approach, which made the role of selector redundant for 19 months under Director of Cricket Rob Key, allowed for innovations such as “Bazball” Test cricket and England’s victory in the 2022 T20 World Cup. The coach would have sole selection authority, similar to a football manager, with the support of the captain and a Caribbean-wide scouting network.

In conclusion, the challenges faced by West Indies cricket in terms of selection are unique and require a fresh approach. The traditional role of selectors no longer serves the best interests of the team. By implementing reforms and embracing a more innovative selection process, West Indies cricket can overcome its current predicament.