Winds of change in cricket as WI fail to qualify for World Cup

In a heartbreaking turn of events, the once-dominant West Indies cricket team, renowned as the Kings of the Cricket World Cup, were knocked out of the World Cup qualifications, leaving fans and cricket enthusiasts disheartened.

- SUNIL YASH KALRA

Their defeat at the hands of Scotland by 7 wickets has resulted in the two-time champion being eliminated from the highly anticipated 2023 World Cup.

The match against Scotland showcased a lacklustre performance from the West Indies team, marked by missed catches, poor shot selection, and an overall display of juvenile cricket. Failing to capitalise on their home-ground advantage, where they had played the majority of their matches in the tournament, they could only manage a meagre total of 181 runs to defend in 50 overs.

For those who grew up admiring cricket almost four decades ago, witnessing the decline of West Indian cricket is deeply disheartening. The memories of their awe-inspiring fast bowling, explosive batting, and raw talent that made them the undisputed kings of the Cricket World Cup in the 80s and 90s are now overshadowed by their recent struggles.

Statistics highlight their dominance between 1976 and 1995, which coincided with their golden era. West Indies won 71 of the 137 Tests they played in that era, losing only 18—a win-loss ratio of 3.89. In the 1980s, they went through a period when they did not lose a single match for 27 consecutive Test matches (still a record). They went from 1980-1995 without losing a series. The team’s pace battery did not concede more than 26 runs per wicket, with bowlers like Marshall and Garner boasting a bowling average of less than 21.