Scorpions skipper banned for four games

ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC):

Jamaica Scorpions captain John Campbell has been issued a four-game suspension by Cricket West Indies (CWI) for his role in last month’s CG United Super50 debacle between the Scorpions and Barbados Pride that led to the final being forfeited.

However, while Campbell has admitted wrongdoing, Pride captain Raymon Reifer is yet to respond to the charges issued against him and therefore, has not yet been disciplined.

Both captains failed to be present for the toss in the rain-affected final on November 23, allowing time to elapse past the latest starting point.

As a result, both teams failed to take the field, effectively refusing to play. This resulted in a double forfeit, with no champions being declared.

Campbell and Reifer were subsequently issued Level 3 charges by match referee Reon King following the incident.

CWI later announced that no prize money would be awarded, and no match fees would be paid to either team involved in the final.

The champions were set to receive US$100,000 while the runner-up would have received US$50,000.

However, a release issued yesterday by CWI said Campbell had accepted liability and apologised for his actions.

“I sincerely regret any disruption caused during the final and acknowledge that my actions may have been perceived as resistance to the match officials’ decision,” Campbell said.

“It was never my intention to undermine their authority or bring the game into disrepute. I fully acknowledge the importance of maintaining the integrity of the game and the need for adherence to the rules and decisions of the officials.”

Director of cricket at CWI, Miles Bascombe, confirmed the suspension and highlighted the importance of Campbell’s admission in determining the sanction.

“We appreciate Mr Campbell’s acknowledgement of the situation and his sincere apology.

“In light of his admission and demonstrated remorse, CWI has applied the minimum sanction of a four-match ban for a Level 3 Offence, as a matter of leniency. This will be served during the 2025 CG United Super50 tournament,” Bascombe said.

“This decision reinforces the critical role of captains in upholding the values of sportsmanship and respect for the game’s integrity. We trust that John will use this experience to continue contributing positively to West Indies cricket and serve as a role model moving forward.”

Bascombe, however, said CWI was still awaiting a response from Reifer.

“At this stage, Raymon Reifer has not responded to the charges. Should he not respond, the matter would proceed to the disciplinary committee,” he explained.

“Our goal is to promote accountability and ensure that all players understand the importance of maintaining professionalism and respect on and off the field.”