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Abu Dhabi: Former West Indies star and current coach of the Ireland national team, Phil Simmons made a strong case for former cricketers to get involved in the administration of the game in their respective countries.
Speaking to Gulf Newson Friday, Simmons said results in Australia and India have proved the valuable contribution of former cricketers.
"In big countries like Australia and India we have seen an influential part being played by former players. They are part of the decision-making process and this seems to have helped considerably," said Simmons, who was formerly the coach of Zimbabwe before taking charge of Ireland after the World Cup.
"As long as former crickets have the ability, the business sense and the knowledge to qualify for these positions in cricket administration I don't see why they should not be here. It would be nice to see more cricketers in such roles," said the West Indian all-rounder.
Weak domestic game
Commenting on the massive dip in fortunes of the once all-conquering West Indies cricket team, Simmons said is was a result of a weak domestic structure. "The standard of first class cricket in the West Indies is not very high. The domestic cricket is very inconsistent and it is this inconstancy that is being carried to the international level," Simmons said.
"Most of the West Indies players only get to learn at the international level. That is why you find them taking a while to adjust. A strong domestic structure can change that," he said.
Simmons also expressed his dissatisfaction at the way the West Indies board sacked four former cricketers. "I was also a part of West Indies cricket. But it is sad the way cricket is being run," he added.
Expressing great satisfaction with his coaching stint, Simmons said the Irish squad was a delight to be involved with.
"I have been with them for the past year and they are a great unit. I am thoroughly enjoying my stint."
Commenting on the move to reduce the number of berths for Associate Countries in the next World Cup, Simmons said: "The ICC had no choice. Some of the Associate Countries did not do well and there is always the pressure from the Test playing countries."
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