JCA pours water on refreshment controversy

Some members of the Jamaica Scorpions cricket franchise are crying foul at what they consider to be the continued disrespect being meted out.

The latest development comes in the wake of complaints by some members of the squad citing a lack of drinking water at practice sessions.

The Gleaner understands that the players were initially asked by the Scorpions franchise administrators to take their water to practice. However, the players squarely rejected that request and since then two igloos with water have been provided for sessions.

The players have complained that the drinking water provided is inadequate and when it is provided all kinds of sediments are found in the igloo. The scenario is puzzling to the players as it is understood that Cricket West Indies (CWI) provides each franchisee with bottled water monthly.

One player who spoke under anonymity says he does not expect any change in the situation as he believes that this has been happening for some time now.

“When you go up in the JCA (Jamaica Cricket Association) office, you see water all over the place like they are the ones playing cricket,” the player said. “This is foolishness, but until things change at the top, nothing will be done about it at the bottom.”

Scorpions Chief Executive Officer Courtney Francis said “CWI provides the franchises with a certain amount of water in which we allocate about six cases per day on match days, and three cases for a three-hour session on training day. What you will find is that we will cater for the 14-member squad, but when you check it out, some 25 players come on any given practice day and that poses a problem in terms of providing refreshment.”

Sticking to allocation

Francis said CWI has stipulated that each player should get a standard amount of water per day and the franchise has been sticking to that allocation.

“The players themselves have been abusing the situation because they will take the same water and isotonic drinks provided for them and give to their friends in the stands, and in some instances, they will take more than they are allocated and carry home,” Francis said.

JCA Cricket Operations Officer O’Neil Cruickshank shares the same sentiment as he made it clear that there is no lack of water.

“Every time the coach requests refreshments, we have responded positively,” Cruickshank said. “We have had to provide additional water on occasions.”

The Jamaica Scorpions, who are at the bottom of the CWI Professional Cricket League Regional 4-Day standings, are expected to have one final practice session today before they leave the island on Monday for their fourth round clash with defending champions and leaders Guyana Jaguars.