Dear Editor,
The thinking behind the suspension of Coach Simmons: how could such a decision benefit W.I cricket?
The only argument I have heard in support of the decision, or indeed can be made in its support, is the preservation of the institutional integrity of the governing body of WI cricket, the WICB.
Quite apart from the frequently expressed opinion that the WICB is dysfunctional and not worthy of preservation in its current form, it seems clear that the crux of the issue is whether there were other means of demonstrating the WICB`s disapproval of Mr Simmons`s conduct, than a suspension at a time when it would be obvious to any reasonable observer that such a decision would have an immediate negative impact on the team`s preparation, and performance, in the short run, and likely also have long run undesirable repercussions.
Clearly there were several alternative means of demonstrating the board`s disapproval, including, denunciation, a fine, extracting a promise of future “good behaviour” and things of such a nature. A distinguished cricket observer has offered other suggestions.
When one considers the board`s willingness over a period of some two years, that includes the recent world cup, to not appoint a head coach, it is difficult not to conclude that this board does not consider a head coach as an essential component of a modern international cricket organisation.
If that is in fact its belief, the board owes a duty to the WI cricket community to publicly state its position and invite other views, as the record is clear that the WICB management has been wrong on so many fundamental issues.
Yours faithfully,
Romain Pitt
