West Indies players to decide on new contract [Source: AFP]Cricket West Indies recently announced a significant pay cut in its annual contracts. Players on the board's books will need to let go 25 per cent of their retainer pay in order to restructure finances, which got a lot of heat from the media and fans.This is not an isolated incident wherein the Caribbean stars have to bear the financial brunt of the board's struggle. Over the past decade and a half, CWI and its star players have repeatedly clashed over contractual matters — the newly announced pay-cuts only highlight the worsening financial situation.CWI sets 2-week deadline for West Indies playersFollowing the official announcement of the wage reductions, CWI CEO Chris Dehring spoke to Cricinfo and called this step "necessary" for the smooth running of cricket in the Caribbean. He also revealed a stipulated period for players to review the situation and make their decisions.Players are free to opt out of signing a new contract, without worrying about their place in the team. CWI would be open to knowing if the players are offered better international contracts and if they are unwilling to continue being on the books."Given the timing, and the ongoing India series, we don't want players to feel there is the proverbial gun to their head to sign contracts that have been offered. It's an important and considered decision for them to make, discuss it with their agents and their lawyers, so we have given them two weeks to review," he said.Also Read: Shai Hope Breaks Chris Gayle’s Record, Becomes Fastest West Indian To 20 ODI Centuries"They can decide whether or not they choose to be internationally contracted players. That would not preclude them from being selected to represent West Indies, or making themselves available to West Indies," he added.West Indies' persistent financial struggle in a nutshellThe players and CWI have had several disputes over the past decade and a half. Although the issues have been persistent, players now have the option to opt out of contracts because of franchise cricket, so they have been much more outspoken.The West Indies players also famously abandoned the 2014 tour of India under Dwayne Bravo due to the new payment structure. Several major stars, including Chris Gayle and Sunil Narine, missed a lot of international cricket because of these issues.One of the latest examples is Nicholas Pooran, who retired from international cricket at 29, while another former captain, Jason Holder, opted out of the contract despite remaining available for selection.Also Read: ILT20 2026 Auction: Full Squads, List Of All Players Sold, Most Expensive Buys
