West Indies, two-time champions of the Cricket World Cup and winners of the T20 World Cup twice, will not participate in the upcoming 2023 edition of the Cricket World Cup after failing to qualify. Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has offered a suggestion to Cricket West Indies (CWI) to pay players based on their performance and drop central contracts. Gavaskar believes that this approach, coupled with increased Test match fees, could lead to a change in the players’ attitude and improve their overall performance.
West Indies’ recent performance has been disappointing, as they failed to qualify for the 2023 Cricket World Cup and have struggled in bilateral series. Their only consolation has been their home Test performances, including a victory against England. However, they suffered a significant defeat against India in the first Test, which has raised concerns about their overall performance.
Sunil Gavaskar suggests that CWI should pay players based on their performance instead of offering central contracts that guarantee a fixed amount. He questions the impact of receiving a significant amount of money before players even score a run or take a wicket, particularly given the West Indian temperament. Gavaskar believes that a system where players are paid based on their performance would encourage a different attitude and commitment to their game.
“Today the West Indian players, whether it is Test player or T20 player, all the players all over the world are guaranteed by their central contracts, a hundred thousand dollars or whatever. But if you know the West Indian temperament and you have that much in the bank before you score a run or take a wicket, I am not too sure about a lot of them if it actually matters whether they score runs or not.” Gavskar suggested.
In addition to performance-based payments, Gavaskar suggests increasing Test match fees for West Indies players. By incentivizing Test cricket and offering higher financial rewards, the board can encourage players to prioritize the longer format of the game. This approach aims to enhance players’ dedication to Test cricket and elevate their performance in this format.
ICC World Cup 2023 Schedule Announced, Click Here To Check Full Schedule
“Because the money is in the bank. My suggestion would be to increase the Test match fees but don’t give them central contracts. You are paid for your performance. Then probably they will have a different attitude.” Gavaskar further added.
Gavaskar’s suggestions are aimed at addressing the issues of complacency and inconsistency among West Indies players. By removing the security of central contracts and emphasizing performance-based payments, the players will have a greater motivation to excel on the field. The increased Test match fees would further reinforce the significance of Test cricket and encourage players to strive for excellence in the longer format.
