These are dark times for WI cricket, but I stay loyal: Roach

West Indies cricket is in choppy waters.

Its players are set to bear the brunt of the financial crisis after having learnt that there would be a 25% reduction in retainer fees. But even such a grim situation has not dampened the spirit of veteran Kemar Roach, who is still troubling batters with his pace-bowling prowess in Tests.

“From things I have seen and heard in the media, these are dark times. But as players, we have to focus on what we can focus on, which is our performances. For me, it is all about pride,” Roach, a member of the West Indies red-ball contingent training at the Super Kings Academy here, told The Hindu on Saturday.

“I have always relished performing for the West Indies. We have such a rich cricket history... being part of history, it is what you live for. When I step on the field, I do not think about money... I think about how I can affect a game positively and get a win. At the end of the day, you have to be loyal to the sport that gave you a lot,” added Roach, the owner of 304 Test wickets.

He, however, admitted that the drastic measures taken by Cricket West Indies were a “worrying sign” for the willow game back home. Among the changes is the suspension of the regional men’s 50-over and women’s T20 tournaments.

“The Board needs to reassure the younger generation that there is a future for them. You have to find a way to keep them interested and motivated. Talking about money, we have to feed our families and improve our lives,” he said.

Come what may, the 38-year-old will keep going as long as his body allows him to. “I will give my all until then.” That is his app‘Roach’.