CWI’s new president Shallow wants unity, inclusivity

ST JOHN'S, Antigua (CMC):

Dr Kishore Shallow has underscored the importance of "unity and inclusivity" during his upcoming first two-year term after being elected unopposed as the new Cricket West Indies president last weekend.

Shallow, the previous CWI vice-president, had his new post formalised at Saturday's 24th annual general meeting at Coolidge Cricket Ground.

Azim Bassarath, the current Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board chief, was also elected unopposed as the new vice-president.

"The resounding vote of confidence demonstrated by the shareholders is heartening," Shallow said.

"My profound gratitude to them and all the stakeholders for supporting me throughout the electoral process.

"As I embark on this new role with Vice-President Bassarath, there is no delusion about the considerable workload.

"My philosophy remains one of unity and inclusivity. For it is only if we pool our resources and efforts together will West Indies cricket make any meaningful advancement as a cricket nation."

Shallow served as an understudy to departing President Ricky Skerritt, who presided over CWI since 2019 after defeating Jamaican Dave Cameron.

Skerritt, a former government minister in St Kitts and Nevis, opted against seeking re-election, and Shallow found no challengers after putting himself forward for the top CWI post last month.

Shallow hailed the success of Skerritt's tenure, especially during the difficult period of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"On behalf of Cricket West Indies, I sincerely thank the outgoing president, Ricky Skerritt, for his latest contribution to our beloved cricket," said Shallow.

"He has served with distinction and pride in one of the most challenging periods in our lifetime, the COVID-19 pandemic. His tenure has certainly moved us in the right direction."

Bassarath, meanwhile, said he hoped to build on the "good work" done by the last administration of Skerritt and Shallow.

"It is indeed an honour to be elected to serve as the vice-president of Cricket West Indies, and I look forward to working alongside Dr Shallow and the other members of the board of directors as we continue the good work done by Mr Skerritt, for the benefit of everyone involved in West Indies cricket," Bassarath said.