West Indies announce multi-year player contracts for the first time in history

In a potential turning point for cricket in the Caribbean, Cricket West Indies (CWI) has awarded multi-year contracts to select individuals for the first time in history.

The groundbreaking move comes as part of a new four-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between CWI and the West Indies Players Association (WIPA) in January 2024.

A total of nine players among men and women have received multi-year international contracts. The nine include Shai Hope, Hayley Matthews, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph and Stefanie Taylor.

21 other players – men and women – received one-year contracts. Roston Chase, Kavem Hodge and Ashmini Munisar are the three new signings who did not have a central contract last year.

One notable exclusion is Kemar Roach, but CWI confirmed that the veteran pacer is “in discussions about a new dual role as player and mentor/coach” as he begins to consider retirement and embark on the next chapter of his cricket career.

For women, CWI has also introduced an updated performance evaluation structure that is now aligned with the structure used for international and regional men.

“This is also accompanied by higher contractual salaries, which come with a commitment to achieve equal match fees and prize money in men’s and women’s professional cricket by October 2027,” the board confirmed in the press release.

Speaking about the historic announcement, Miles Bascombe, Director of CWI Cricket, said: “CWI is committed to having an open and honest dialogue with players and taking a practical look at the realities of the modern game.” The players have responded accordingly, accepting multi-year agreements Contracts are a sign of clarity, trust and commitment on both sides. I would like to congratulate the entire contracting cohort on their achievements in the last assessment period and look forward to them building on this in the next one.”

WI men's players received multi-year international contracts

Shai Hope, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Gudakesh Motie, Jayden Seales

WI men's players received one-year international contracts

Alick Athanaze, Kraigg Brathwaite, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase*, Joshua Da Silva, Kavem Hodge*, Akeal Hosein, Romario Shepherd, Rovman Powell

*New for 2024/25

WI women's players received multi-year international contracts

Shemaine Campbelle, Hayley Matthews, Stafanie Taylor

WI women's players received one-year international contracts

Aaliyah Alleyne, Shamilia Connell, Deandra Dottin, Afy Fletcher, Cherry Ann Fraser, Chinelle Henry, Zaida James, Qiana Joseph, Ashmini Munisar*, Chedean Nation, Karishma Ramharack, Rashada Williams

*New for 2024/25

The contract period for the players with a one-year contract runs from October 1, 2024 to September 30, 2025, while the contracts for the multi-year contract players run from October 1, 2024 to September 30, 2026.

If you haven't downloaded the Cricket.com app yet, you're missing out on our content – big time. Download the app here.