GEORGETOWN, Guyana (CMC) — Guyana Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo has praised the vision of new Cricket West Indies (CWI) President Ricky Skerritt, joining a growing list of Caribbean leaders congratulating the former St Kitts and Nevis government minister on his elevation to the top post in the regional governing body.

Skerritt, also a former West Indies senior team manager, and running mate Dr Kishore Shallow, denied Dave Cameron and Emmanuel Nanthan a fourth-successive term in charge when they defeated them by 8-4 margins in elections during the CWI annual general meeting in Kingston last Sunday.

“I offer warm congratulations to you and Dr Kishore Shallow on your election to the presidency and vice-presidency of Cricket West Indies (CWI),” Nagamootoo wrote in a letter to Skerritt.

“I am aware of your background in West Indies cricket administration and experience in government, which will serve you well during your term. All Guyanese wish you every success as you endeavour to provide leadership, vision and direction in the administration of our premier regional sport.”

The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) was seen as one of former President Cameron’s strongest allies, and was two of the four votes he received, along with those from Barbados.

During the election campaign, the GCB courted controversy when it snubbed a request from Skerritt and Shallow to present their plans to the general body.

However, Nagamootoo said Guyana hoped to engage the new leadership on their Cricket First Plan, and was also optimistic that the “strained relationships with players and other stakeholders” could be resolved.

“We look forward to engaging with you, Dr Shallow and the CWI Board soonest on matters of mutual interest towards the development and growth of West Indies Cricket,” Nagamootoo said.

“We are impressed with your Cricket First plan and look forward to its full execution region-wide.”