Does cricket need a strong West Indies?

[sage]

Lots of people say that, but does it - really?

[sage]

I mean, in terms of population added to the game. There're probably better countries to target financially, I get the history of it all, and stuff. But is it really vital for the well-being of the game?

[MCGGG]

The West Indies are done mate, basketball and soccer has taken over. :( The money just isn't there for cricketers, then you have the tension between islands and such.

[Marut]

Not really. Strong India would actually help cricket in a bigger way because of India occupying a niche spot in cricket.

[MCGGG]

Not really. Strong India would actually help cricket in a bigger way because of India occupying a niche spot in cricket.

Disagree, cricket is already super strong in India, you just have to learn how to play the game.

[kubrickian]

Strange thing about West Indies is they always seem to have a good team on paper - good batsmen, good fast bowlers, decent all rounders and usually a decent spinner but they never seem to perform as a team and stitch together a few decent performances to be able to win a game. I think its due to a lack of motivation, work ethic, professionalism than due to lack of talent or ability. For starters, they need to get rid of Gayle because some players are like poison because of their attitude and they rub off negatively on other team members.

[sage]

WTF ... Gayle is their only batsman