CWI orders review after West Indies' humbling 27-run collapse

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – CRICKET West Indies (CWI) has once again launched a review into the state of regional cricket after the West Indies were bundled out for a measly 27 runs in their second innings of the third Test against Australia in Jamaica.

That score—just one run higher than New Zealand’s infamous 26—is the lowest ever total by a West Indies Test team, and has reignited calls for a two-tier system following another series of dismal performances with the bat.

CWI President Dr. Kishore Shallow, in a message to the region, acknowledged the painful reality and expressed deep disappointment, while confirming the review process.

"Like every West Indian cricket fan, I felt the pain of our recent Test defeat to Australia. The result hurts deeply, not only because of how we lost, but because of what West Indies cricket has always represented to our people: pride, identity, and possibility,” he wrote.

He continued: “There will be some sleepless nights ahead for many of us, including the players, who I know feel this loss just as heavily. But while disappointment is natural, we must not allow this moment to define our journey..”

Shallow emphasized that the West Indies are in “a rebuilding phase,” steadily investing in the next generation and aiming to reignite the spirit that once made the regional side a dominant global force.

But the crushing 176-run defeat under the lights at Sabina Park sealed a 3-0 whitewash in the series—yet another in a growing list of forgettable Test campaigns. Still, the CWI boss insists that “progress is rarely straightforward,” pointing out there have been “encouraging signs.”

“It takes time, perseverance, and belief, especially in our most difficult moments. The road ahead will test us, but I have faith in the talent and commitment of our players when they apply themselves," he said. "We have already seen encouraging signs, particularly with the ball. Our batters are keen, but now must be even more deliberate as they work to improve."

He urged fans across the Caribbean not to abandon the team now, as they push forward through the difficult phase.

To address the deeper issues within the regional cricketing structure, CWI has instructed the Chair of the Cricket Strategy and Officiating Committee to convene an emergency meeting to review the recently concluded Test series, with special attention to the final match.

To strengthen those discussions, Shallow revealed that he has invited three of the region’s greatest batsmen—Sir Clive Lloyd, Sir Vivian Richards, and Brian Lara—to join the committee, which already includes other past legends such as Dr. Shivnarine Chanderpaul, The Most Honourable Dr. Desmond Haynes, and Ian Bradshaw.

"This engagement is not ceremonial. These are men who helped define our golden eras, and their perspectives will be invaluable as we shape the next phase of our cricket development. We intend for this gathering to result in tangible, actionable recommendations,” Shallow stated.

He stressed that the way forward requires unity: "Consistent with my message over the last weeks, this is a moment that calls for collaboration, not division. We need everyone on board: fans, players, coaches, legends, and administrators, if we are to truly move forward."

He acknowledged that there is much work to be done.