By Chalien Dantes 

Cricket West Indies (CWI) President Dr Kishore Shallow says he’ll finish his current term but won’t be running again.

His decision comes after stepping into a new role as a government minister in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, all while West Indies cricket enjoys a lift from a hard-fought draw against New Zealand in Christchurch.

In his regional address, Dr Shallow explained that he wants to see through the governance changes already in motion before bowing out of the presidency. He noted that all the necessary checks have been done to ensure his new ministerial post doesn’t clash with his duties at CWI. He admitted that holding both roles at once might feel unusual in the Caribbean, but pointed out that it’s fairly normal in other cricketing circles. He reminded the region that the presidency isn’t a full-time, paid job, and that day-to-day operations are handled by CEO Chris Dehring and a sizeable staff.

Shallow said he’s staying on long enough to finish the reform work already on the table. More than 70% of the Webby Report recommendations have been carried out, with more adjustments planned before his term ends.

He pointed to progress across the board: steady steps toward pay parity in women’s cricket, a refreshed memorandum of understanding with the West Indies Players’ Association that improves player earnings, the launch of the Breakout League with the CPL to give young players a bigger stage, and the successful hosting of a World Cup that will be remembered for years. Even so, he admitted he isn’t pleased with the recent form of West Indies teams and says everyone involved knows the effort required to build steady results.

Dr Shallow also saluted the Test squad for their gritty draw in Christchurch. He praised Captain Ruston Trace for guiding the side, celebrated Justin Graves’ outstanding double century, applauded Keemar Roach for his relentless heart, and credited Shai Hope’s 140 for helping secure the result.

Addressing critics who used his dual roles to stir controversy, Shallow urged supporters of West Indies cricket to stay focused and not be distracted by a noisy minority. He said the road ahead calls for shared purpose, calm leadership, and belief in where the sport is heading.