Published 20 June 2024
Buckie Got It, St. Kitts and Nevis News Source
It was indeed a pleasure to have Mikyle Louis visit the Federal Cabinet this week. As the first Kittitian to play Test Cricket for the West Indies, his achievements are a source of immense pride for us all. He was honored with the following:
- Naming the South Stands at the Warner Park Cricket Stadium in his honor
- Allocating a parcel of land to him
- Naming a road in his honor
Thanks to Hon. Samal Duggins and the Ministry of Sports for collaborating with the Cabinet in making this possible.
However, while we celebrate Mikyle’s success, it’s crucial to recognize that much more needs to be done to ensure cricket thrives in the Federation. Proper infrastructure is essential to boost the sport, providing more players with opportunities to become stars and potentially get picked to play for the West Indies. We’ve seen politicians step in at the last minute to acknowledge and take credit for the achievements of a few, who have struggled with inadequate gear, facilities, and no annual structured tournaments to support their development. These individuals have never given up, but it’s time for our Ministers to step up and do the right thing.
To develop world-class cricketers, we need equal opportunities for everyone, which requires substantial government funding. The role of the government is also pivotal in integrating cricket into our school curriculum. This ensures that cricket becomes a foundational part of our youth’s education, fostering early development and a deep love for the game.
Let us all continue to support Mikyle and wish him the best, while also advocating for the necessary changes to support the next generation of cricketers in the Federation.
