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'Increase Test Match Fees But No...': Sunil Gavaskar's Unique Suggestion To Revive Windies Cricket

image-lk6c1bd3West Indie lost the first Test by an innings and 141 runs [Source: Twitter]

For the first time since the inception of the Cricket World Cup in 1975, two-time champions West Indies won't participate in the upcoming 2023 edition, after failing to qualify. West Indies, who have also won the T20 World Cup a record two times, were knocked out of the main draw in the 2022 edition.

The only saving grace for them had been the Test format, where they held their win in home conditions and managed to beat England last year. However, they suffered a humiliating an innings and 141-run loss against visitors India in the first Test last week at Dominica as part of a two-match series.

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar, who was a constant thorn for West Indies during their best days, has suggested that the Cricket West Indies (CWI) start paying players on performance and drop central contracts.

Speaking to Indian Express, the cricketer-turned-commentator, stated that the board should increase Test fees as well, and not give free money.

Here's what Gavaskar suggested

“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.

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.”

Since the 2016 T20 World Cup win, West Indies have managed only 12 bilateral series win at home out of 41, and are in line to lose the ongoing one as well, if they don't pull up their socks. 

The second and final Test begins July 20, with India leading 1-0.