While not confirming whether he would be interested in returning as Cricket West Indies (CWI) president, Dave Cameron says he is willing to play a part in the growth of cricket in the region. He added he has become a better leader than he was before.

Cameron, a Jamaican, was elected as CWI president in 2013 and served for six years before losing the presidential election to Ricky Skerritt in 2019. Skerritt’s former Vice-President Dr Kishore Shallow currently leads the region’s governing body after taking over in 2023.

Shallow, who is expected to demit office in 2028, has received heavy criticism during his tenure, including from former St Vincent and the Grenadines prime minister and Caricom cricket subcommittee chairman, Ralph Gonsalves.

Cameron told the Jamaica Observer that as CWI boss he could have handled things better but believes he did his best for regional cricket.

“I recognise that my approach and decisions during that period at times contributed to tensions with stakeholders who, like Dr Gonsalves, cared deeply about the future of West Indies cricket,” he said.

“With the benefit of reflection, I understand how my actions shaped perspectives then, and I have learned valuable lessons about leadership and collaboration that continue to guide me today.”

Speaking with the Observer last week, Gonsalves blasted Shallow’s leadership, blaming him for the poor state of West Indies cricket. He also urged Shallow to step down after becoming tourism minister and a Member of Parliament in St Vincent.

West Indies players celebrate the dismissal of an Australia batsman during the second Test cricket match at Grenada National Cricket Stadium in St George’s, Grenada, on July 3, 2025. Photo: AFP

Gonsalves, in pointing out Shallow’s flaws, had high praise for Cameron, despite repeatedly calling for his resignation during his stint.

“West Indies Cricket was doing much better under Dave than now, no question about it,” Gonsalves said. “I have good conversations [with Cameron] from time to time and he loves Cricket West Indies, and he has a certain personality, and he has a creative mind.”

Cameron oversaw several achievements such as multiple World Cup titles for the men’s, women’s and under-19 teams, as well as the professionalisation of regional cricket through central contracts that significantly increased player earnings across the board.

However, he had several public spats with various stakeholders, including active and former players, and government leaders including Gonsalves.

Current CWI vice-president and Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board President Azim Bassarath has been touted as a candidate to replace Shallow in two years.

However, there have been suggestions that Cameron could run for the post, although he hasn’t done so in the previous three CWI elections.

Cameron didn’t confirm his interest in the presidency but admits he’s available to contribute to the sport’s development, and highlighted key areas that need to be addressed.

“My passion for West Indies cricket remains strong. Our future success depends on critical priorities — investing in youth development to identify and nurture the next generation of Caribbean talent, ensuring financial sustainability that enables our cricket to compete globally while serving all our territories, and fostering unity among our nations in support of our shared cricketing heritage,” he said.

“West Indies cricket has given much to our region and the world. I remain committed to supporting its advancement in whatever capacity I can contribute, and I hope all stakeholders will continue working collaboratively to restore our cricket to its rightful place.”

Since leaving CWI, Cameron attempted to secure a position on the Jamaica Football Federation board, but his bid fell short after Raymond Anderson lost the 2024 presidential election to incumbent Michael Ricketts.

West Indies Women cricketers celebrate the fall of an Australia Women’s wicket during the second Twenty20 match at Arnos Vale Ground in St Vincent and the Grenadines on March 21, 2026. Photo: CWI Media

GONSALVES… West Indies Cricket was doing much better under Dave than now, no question about itPhoto: Joseph Wellington

CAMERON… I understand how my actions shaped perspectives then, and I have learned valuable lessons about leadership and collaboration Photo: Observer file