GEORGETOWN, Guyana, CMC – Guyanese officials have dismissed rumours that they are considering filing an injunction against the West Indies Players’ Association.
This follows attempts by the Guyana Cricket Board to conclude contractual arrangements with the national team ahead of their participation Champions League Twenty20 in South Africa next month.
WIPA have entered the negotiations as representative of the Guyanese players, but the GCB have apparently balked at some of the demands, and CMC Sports Wire was informed that they may try the legal manoeuvre to curb their intervention.
GCB President Chetram Singh said his executive had agreed to seek an attorney to look at the matter, but was unaware of an injunction being filed.
Guyana’s Minister of Housing & Water Irfaan Ali is acting in the position of Sports Minister in the absence of Frank Anthony.
He also said he was unaware that an injunction was being filed, but confirmed the Bharat Jagdeo Government’s commitment to giving their unqualified support to the national team.
Singh could not shed light on why the GCB had not responded to the contract document, which was sent to them by WIPA two days after Guyana were crowned Caribbean T20 champions on July 31.
WIPA executive president Dinanath Ramnarine was also unaware of a GCB injunction, but appeared willing to fight whatever challenge was thrown his organization’s way.
“I would be very surprised if they do that and what would be the basis for such action?” he said.
“I have never heard someone file an injunction to prevent people from negotiating on behalf of their members.”
He added: “That would be a first, but if that is in fact so, we stand ready to deal with it. WIPA’s only interest is in doing what is in the best interest of the players, and West Indies cricket.
“We really hope that all involved can understand the importance of cricket to West Indies and work together for the common good of reviving the game in the region.”
The contract dispute has started to affect the players, with two senior members of the squad hoping that the matter can be resolved amicably so they can focus fully on getting physically, technically, and mentally ready for the CLT20.
Guyana are scheduled to play their first match in South Africa on September 12 against Royal Challengers Bangalore.
