Sir Viv calls for end to stand-off

The 54-year old, who played 121 Tests between 1974 and 1991, said the current West Indies players needed to understand the importance of cricket to the region. He was echoing recent sentiments made by Reverend Wes Hall.

“It is highly important that individuals realise what’s of importance. The Caribbean is bleeding at this stage. People are crying because of what we stood for in the past,” Sir Viv told CMC Sports Friday.

“As the Right Reverend [Wes Hall] did say he called on these individuals to buck up.” He added: “You would have heard him say clearly that it’s about time that these get with the programme.”

Sir Viv, who scored 8540 runs in Tests at an average of 50.23, was a highly successful captain and the West Indies never lost a series under his watch.

Also on Friday, Hall, himself a former feared West Indies fast bowler, called on players to resolve the negotiations with the WICB so the region could see the best cricket being played.

“I note with disgust the impasse that we have right now on the eve of the World Cup. I wish to tell all players not to lose the public’s support.

“After all, cricket is of the people, for the people and by the people in the West Indies and it belongs to the people,” Hall stressed.

“I am sincerely praying that this weekend as the boys (players) meet that they will do the right thing and make sure that we see cricket at the highest level.” (CMC)