Jamaica backs Cameron to replace Hunte as WICB president

Kingston (Jamaica), Feb 22 (IANS/CMC):

The Jamaica Cricket Association (JCA) says it will back Whycliffe Cameron’s bid to unseat Julian Hunte as the next president of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB).

The JCA confirmed plans to support its compatriot following a board meeting Tuesday which discussed the intended move by Cameron, a Vice president of the WICB.

“The Jamaica Cricket Association supports Whycliffe ‘Dave’ Cameron in his bid for president of the West Indies Cricket Board,” said a statement released by the JCA Wednesday.

“As we seek to develop and redevelop the sport as a driving force for economic activity for all stakeholders, we believe Cameron has the skills required to lead a team to achieve this mandate.”

Cameron, a vice-president since 2007, announced his intention to contest the post in a Jamaica Observer interview.

He is gearing up to battle 72-year old Hunte, who has served three terms as president.

Earlier reports suggest that Hunte was planning to hand over the reins to his understudy but reports suggest that the St Lucian had a change of heart and attempted to negotiate an arrangement for him to remain as president before stepping down in two years.

“We think the renewal of West Indies cricket rests in Cameron and his team’s hands and we therefore unreservedly support him for president,”

said the JCA statement.

The WICB elections are set for March 27, while nominations are slated to close Friday.