‘Hurts deeply’: Windies in crisis as disaster sparks ‘emergency’ meeting with legends

West Indies cricket boss Kishore Shallow has called for an “emergency meeting” involving past greats after the national men’s team was bowled out for just 27 in the third Test against Australia.

Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc took 6-9 as the West Indies made the second-lowest score in Test history, suffering a humiliating 176-run defeat at Sabina Park on Monday.

West Indies just avoided New Zealand’s record low of 26, set in 1955, and Shallow said there would be an inquest to review a dismal 3-0 series loss.

“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,” Kishore said in a statement.

“There will be some sleepless nights ahead for many of us, including the players, who I know feel this loss just as heavily.”

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West Indies’ previous lowest total was the 47 they scored against England in 2004.

“We are in a rebuilding phase, steadily investing in the next generation, and reigniting the spirit that has long made West Indies cricket a force in the world,” said Kishore.

“Progress is rarely straightforward. 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.

“Now is not the time to turn away. Now is the time to stand even closer as a people. These are the moments that shape us.”

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Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and Cameron Green of Australia celebrate the dismissal of Roston Chase. Photo by Randy Brooks / AFP Source: AFP

Kishore said he had invited West Indies greats Clive Lloyd, Viv Richards and Brian Lara to take part in discussions concerning the team’s decline which also saw them fail to qualify for the 50-over World Cup in 2023.

“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 continued.

“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.

“There is much work to be done. But we must do it with purpose, and we must do it together.”

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