Warner makes call for TTCB boss to go higher
Jack Warner believes Azim Bassarath’s next move in cricket administration should not be another term at the helm of the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board. Instead, the former FIFA vice-president says the veteran administrator has earned the right to challenge for the presidency of Cricket West Indies and eventually pursue a role on the International Cricket Council.“I hope he wouldn’t go back as president of the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board, but he’ll go this time as president of Cricket West Indies.”
Bassarath is also into his second consecutive term as CWI vice-president under the leadership of president Dr Kishore Shallow. Shallow previously announced that he will not be seeing re-election as CWI president in 2028.Warner reflected on Bassarath’s journey in cricket administration, revealing he played a role in helping him secure the TTCB presidency when he first challenged former West Indies captain Deryck Murray for the position. “When he decided to run for office as president, we came to the Centre of Excellence and planned it,” Warner recalled. “He was fighting Deryck Murray at the time and we planned it, and we brought victory to him.” More than a decade later, Warner said he remains convinced it was the right decision.
“To elevate the sport from the West Indies, he has to go up to the ICC,” Warner said. Warner reminded guests that achievements—not aspirations- are what ultimately earn recognition and he noted that Bassarath’s body of work has already moved beyond aspiration. Warner is convinced that the TTCB president has proven himself locally and regionally and should now be preparing for a larger stage.