BASSETERRE, St. Kitts-- DESPITE growing public calls for him to step aside as President of Cricket West Indies (CWI), Dr. Kishore Shallow has confirmed that he will serve out his current term but will not seek re-election when it expires.
The announcement follows his successful entry into politics. Shallow was elected to the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines in the recent General Election, securing the North Leeward seat for the New Democratic Party administration.
Addressing the region last Sunday (Dec. 08), Shallow acknowledged that the dual roles required careful consideration, but said he remains committed to completing ongoing CWI reforms.
“Admittedly, I have thought long and hard about this. My conviction is that the work ahead requires steady leadership and a commitment to completing the reforms already set in motion,” he said. “It is for this reason that I will conclude my current term, but with the intention not to seek re-election.”
Since his electoral victory more than a week ago, the CWI president said he has received numerous congratulatory messages, including from within the cricket body. He reiterated that his goal has always been to build a stronger administrative foundation that supports improved on-field performances.
Shallow acknowledged that while the reform journey has not been without challenges, significant progress has been made. “...we have not achieved every goal, we have made significant and measurable progress. To date, we have implemented more than 70 percent of the Wehby Report and governance reform recommendations, with additional areas scheduled for review during this term,” he noted.
He also addressed concerns about holding a ministerial position while serving as CWI president. “...it is not unusual within the global cricket community, where several of my colleagues at the International Cricket Council currently serve or have served as Ministers or Members of Parliament.”
Shallow said a thorough due-diligence review was conducted to ensure there were no legal or ethical conflicts.
“...while there is no conflict of interest, the legitimate question is whether I can effectively manage both portfolios. Having consulted widely with our Board and leadership, I can assure you that I can and will.”
He also stressed that the CWI presidency is not a salaried or full-time post. “It is not a traditional nine-to-five job, nor is it based at our headquarters in Antigua,” he explained, pointing out that the organisation’s daily operations are led by CEO Chris Dehring and a team of more than 50 full-time staff members.
Shallow said that his dual roles may even present an opportunity. “Over the years, governments in our region have been calling for a greater level of engagement with Cricket West Indies. It is fair to say that this may be an avenue for collaboration and involvement without being invasive.”
