Mitchell Wants Talks with C&W, Digicel

Prime Minister Keith Mitchell, who is playing a key role in mediating the dispute between the WICB and WIPA, wants to talk to Digicel and Cable & Wireless to find a solution to the ongoing crisis.

The Associated Press reports that Dr Mitchell plans to bring Cable & Wireless and Digicel to the mediating table in the New Year. Digicel is the new sponsor of West Indies cricket, but former major sponsor Cable & Wireless has retained several players on individual endorsement deals.

The conflict of interest has been a major spark in the clash between the board and players association that has jeopardised the team's tour to Australia for the limited overs Tri Series with Australia and Pakistan in January and February.

"I think some of the problems that are now emerging can be resolved with a cooling off period envisaged during the holiday and during the tour," Mitchell said.

"We will engage the private sector parties, both Cable & Wireless and Digicel, in the whole question of a final solution to the problems."

Dr Mitchell is scheduled to meet officials from the WICB and WIPA on Wednesday to discuss the arbitrator's findings on Clause 1K.