The Editor, Sir:
Once again, West Indies cricket is on a very sticky wicket what with some of the most
talented and popular players
facing a possible omission from the team.
For a board that faces serious financial difficulties, there needs to be more thought put into the issue of sponsorship. We have a very attractive product in West Indies cricket which can have a great impact on the image and ultimate sales revenue of any reasonable sponsor. The board also has to be careful not to devalue this product by making purely business decisions. Already, the competing Test teams (so used to beating us now) are hinting at their
unwillingness to take on a less than top-flight West Indies team.
I believe also that our (the West Indian people) product can accommodate more than one sponsor. Digicel and Cable & Wireless sell similar products. In fact, many Jamaicans (myself included) for one reason or another have both cell phones. In addition, many houses have a Cable & Wireless land line and more than one Digicel phone in the same household. My point: they can and do co-exist.
I recall that Cable & Wireless has given significant sponsorship to the West Indies team even during the recent spate of losses. At this time, with upcoming talent and a home series, I believe it is unnecessary to have this row. Both sponsors need to find a way to coordinate and lift their image as well as West Indies cricket. We, the public, use both their products without prejudice, why can't they both help West Indies cricket?
I am, etc.,
LYNDEN
Lyndenmoh@cwjamaica.com
3 Forsythe Ave,
St. John's Heights
Spanish Town
Via Go-Jamaica
