Two former West Indies Under-19 captains are in the Saint Lucian squad for the Windward Islands Cricket Board Super50 Men’s Tournament bowling off on Monday at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground and Mindoo Phillip Park. But the selectors have found no room for one of the island’s most in-form batsmen, Stephen Naitram.
Saint Lucia are seeking to reclaim the title they last won in 2023, after placing second behind Dominica last year. The home team will be led by opening batsman Kimani Melius, with Ackeem Auguste his vice-captain, as they face Grenada on Monday at DSCG.
The 15-member squad returns Windward Islands senior players Shadrack Descarte, Johnnel Eugene, Keon Gaston and Noelle Leo. Also retained from 2024 are Tyrel Chicot, Dornan Edward, Tarrique Edward, and Jayden Elibox. Incoming players are McKennty Clarke, Shawnil Edward, Lee John, and Royce Paul.
But the absentees are notable as well, led by Naitram. The two most recent local senior men’s cricket competitions were the Saint Lucia Premier League, a T20 tournament, and the just-concluded Dream 11 Saint Lucia T10 Blast. Naitram, 30, had the most runs in the T10 and was the second most prolific run-scorer in the T20, with four half-centuries in nine innings.
Also left out of the squad were former Windward Islands spinner Larry Edward, Sabinus Emmanuel, Vernillius Gabriel and fast bowler Dillan John. A release from the Saint Lucia National Cricket Association stresses the organisation’s focus on fitness.
“The squad reflects a bold and deliberate move towards strategic development, guided by a three-year performance horizon and a strong adherence to the national fitness policy,” read the release. “This approach is part of SLNCA’s broader vision to build a sustainable pipeline of high-performing players who can consistently compete at the regional and international levels.
The release quoted the chairman of selectors, Craig Emmanuel, as saying that the team was selected with the future in mind. “We want to invest in young, committed players who have shown potential, discipline, and a desire to uphold the standards required for modern cricket,” he said. “Fitness, accountability, and continuous improvement are non-negotiable.
“The fitness standard continues to be an area of concern across Windwards cricket, and Saint Lucia remains committed to setting the tone by reinforcing a culture of physical excellence and professionalism. Players were required to meet minimum fitness benchmarks to be considered for selection.”
The team will be coached by Alton Crafton, who will be supported by the staff of the Saint Lucia Cricket High Performance Centre, including a performance analyst, as part of an integrated system designed to ensure optimal team preparation and performance.
