Where is West Indies ? The Missing Champions of Cricket – exclusive story
- By Dr. AK Rana
Where is West Indies?
Hello, cricket fans! How are you doing? With the Champions Trophy 2025 bringing the thrill back into our lives, we are once again blessed with our cricketing dose. The buzz is in the air, and every fan is soaking in the excitement.
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But amidst all this, a question lingers—Where is West Indies?
Where are the legendary champions? A team adored by millions. A team once led by cricketing giants like Chris Gayle, who revolutionized the game with a fearless, six-hitting legacy. ICC events come and go, yet West Indies remain absent.
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What went wrong? Why has one of cricket’s most iconic teams disappeared from the biggest stages?
A Series of Setbacks – West Indies
West Indies failed to qualify for the 2023 ODI World Cup, and as a result, they also missed out on the Champions Trophy 2025, where only the top eight teams participate. But is it just a one-off failure, or is there something deeper at play?
The Rise of T20 Leagues – A Double-Edged Sword
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One major factor is the rise of franchise T20 leagues.
Many West Indian cricketers have chosen financial security over national duty, focusing heavily on the shorter format while neglecting ODIs and Tests. The fast money, global exposure, and packed schedules have made T20 leagues more attractive than the long grind of international cricket.
But in doing so, did they forget that ODIs and Tests are the foundation of cricket? The formats that built the West Indian legacy?
A Team, But Not a Nation?
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West Indies cricket is unique—it represents multiple countries under one flag.
Unlike India, Australia, or England, where patriotism fuels cricketing passion, West Indies operates more like a league team. This lack of unified national identity may have contributed to an inconsistent team culture, affecting their performances and long-term vision.
Internal Chaos – Administration & Selection Issues
Cricket West Indies (CWI) has been plagued with administrative conflicts, selection disputes, and contract issues. Internal politics and mismanagement have often led to clashes between players and the board.
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When the system doesn’t support its players, motivation takes a hit, and the team suffers.
Declining Interest in Cricket – West Indies
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Cricket is no longer the only sport in the Caribbean.
With the rise of basketball, football, and athletics, young talents are choosing different paths. Unlike India, where cricketing idols inspire generations, West Indies lacks strong mentorship for the upcoming players.
Without guidance, motivation, and proper development, young West Indian cricketers are struggling to rise. And that is a dangerous sign for any cricketing nation.
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“You know, the young are the future of any sport, while those who are reigning are their guides and motivation.”
There must be leaders to carry forward the cricketing legacy. When legends retire and sit back in their comfortable chairs, they should still see their team flying high, carrying their spirit forward.
This is what people say about India’s young talents—they thrive under the mentorship of legends like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Dhoni, Sehwag, Sachin and the list continues.
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When one generation steps down, another is ready to rise.
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But for West Indies, the chain seems broken.
A Lesson from Afghanistan
While West Indies is fading, teams like Afghanistan are on the rise. They’ve defeated Australia in the 2023 World Cup and England in the Champions Trophy 2025, proving they are no longer underdogs.
They are progressing with passion, discipline, and a strong cricketing structure. West Indies, once the kings of world cricket, must find a way back before it’s too late.
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The World Misses You, West Indies
No matter what happens, cricket fans love West Indian cricket. The swagger, the sixes, the celebration—they brought an energy to the game like no other.
We all want to see them rise again. Stronger. Fiercer. More competitive than ever.
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“In sports, simply being worthy of competition is a form of respect.”
And as Hardik Pandya once joked,
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“I always wanted to be considered a West Indian who plays for India.” (If you know, you know.)
West Indies, We Await Your Comeback!
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also read Can India’s Fielding Win the Champions Trophy Semifinal?- an exclusive story
