CWI accepts apology, clarifies medical protocol following Falcons coach’s comments

ST JOHN'S, Antigua (CMC):

Cricket West Indies (CWI) has accepted an apology from Antigua & Barbuda Falcons head coach Paul Nixon and the franchise's management regarding recent comments made about the organisation's handling of player medical information.

The governing body welcomed the clarification, acknowledging there was no intent to offend, and used the opportunity to set the record straight on the specific medical protocols followed for players entering the Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

The issue focused on all-rounder Justin Greaves, where, contrary to initial claims, CWI confirmed that its lead physiotherapist, Dr Denis Byam, provided a comprehensive medical handover to both the Leeward Islands franchise (Greaves's home team) and the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons' medical staff immediately after the final ODI against Pakistan on August 12.

This report detailed that Greaves had been cleared following a July 20 MRI scan, but also noted a subsequent Achilles complaint on August 6 that had impacted his bowling workload.

According to standard CWI procedure, players are required to be assessed by their CPL franchise's medical team upon joining. Greaves linked up with the Falcons on August 13, ahead of the CPL's August 14 start.

However, CWI confirmed that the Falcons' medical staff did not conduct an initial assessment and that Greaves received only one physiotherapy session in the first three weeks of the tournament.

CWI CEO Chris Dehring reaffirmed the high standards of the board's medical unit.

"We take great pride in the professionalism and expertise of our sports science and medicine unit, who consistently ensure that player welfare remains the highest priority," Dehring stated. "Our protocols are designed to protect athletes and enable seamless handovers across all levels of competition."

Dehring also emphasised the strong partnership between CWI and the CPL, calling the tournament "one of our most important events, energising cricket across the region and a success story for Cricket West Indies that we support with pride."

CWI stated it looks forward to continued collaboration with all CPL franchises, including the Falcons, reiterating a shared commitment to building a stronger future for West Indies cricket.