Courtney Walsh (centre) shares a joke with Captain Horace Burrell (right), president of the Jamaica Football Federation, and singer Richie Stephens at the launch of Walsh's bid for the presidency of the Jamaica Cricket Association at The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel yesterday. - Rudolph Brown/Chief Photographer

WEST Indies cricket great Courtney Walsh yesterday highlighted the desire to rebuild the sport from the grass roots up - nationally, as a major thrust behind his candidacy for president of the Jamaica Cricket Association (JCA).

The former fast bowler, who is contending for the top position along with incumbent vice-president Paul Campbell, emphasised youth development as a critical part of rebuilding the game from not only a local standpoint but a regional one.

Position of prominence

"We are looking to restore the sport of cricket to a position of prominence in Jamaica and, by extension, eventually the region," Walsh said at a press conference which, among other things, introduced the members of his slate, at The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel yesterday. The post of president became vacant after long-time holder Jackie Hendriks announced he would not seek re-election.

"The fact is that you can't start working with people when they are playing for their countries. You have to build from the grass roots up," he said.

"In my travels, I have had a chance to work with some of the world's best players at various training camps in Australia and elsewhere. One thing they all have in common is a strong youth programmes and that is what needs to happen here," he said.

Close working relationship

Walsh also briefly outlined other plans which include encouraging a close working relationship between past and former players and the establishment of presidential caucuses across the island.

The former world record holder for Test wickets also spoke briefly of a desire to level the field for talented players across the island by ensuring that a part of the recruitment programme examined the environments where players are most comfortable.

The members of Walsh's slate include Lyndel Wright, first vice-president, Fritz Harris, second vice-president, Courtney Daley, treasurer, Dennis Gordon, secretary, Ian Brown, assistant secretary, and Maurice Clarke, assistant treasurer. "I have decided to make the time and make the sacrifice because I feel that at this point I have something to give back to my country and the game of cricket," Walsh said. The JCA election will be held next Thursday.