ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – Cricket West Indies (CWI) has paid tribute to Don Wehby, CD, a pivotal figure in regional cricket governance, following the news of his passing. Though he never took the field in maroon, Wehby’s influence on the sport’s future in the Caribbean was profound and lasting.
Don Wehby served West Indies cricket not with a bat or ball, but with unwavering integrity, deep love for the game, and a visionary commitment to reform. As Chair of the Cricket West Indies Governance Reform Task Force, he authored the landmark Wehby Report (2020), now seen as a foundational document in CWI’s path toward modern governance.
“Don never walked onto a cricket field in maroon, but he carried West Indies cricket in his heart,” CWI said in a statement. “He was the definition of a true fan: loyal in spirit, unwavering in belief, and committed not just to the glory of the past, but to the possibilities of the future.”
The Wehby Report: A legacy of integrity and vision
Wehby’s governance work was rooted in principle, consultation, and stewardship. He believed in a future for West Indies cricket where excellence in leadership matched the passion of its people. The report, driven by rigorous analysis and collaboration, outlined a pathway for transparent and accountable governance structures.
“Governance was not about control,” the statement read, “but about honouring the dreams of every young boy or girl who watches the maroon take the field with wonder in their eyes.”
His corporate leadership as Group CEO of GraceKennedy translated into direct support for West Indies cricket during critical periods. His guidance helped steer the organization through complexity and change, always asking not what was easy, but what was right.
Tributes from West Indies cricket leadership
Dr Kishore Shallow, President of CWI, shared:
“Today, we mourn the passing of a man who never sought recognition, only progress. Don Wehby gave to West Indies cricket not for applause, but out of deep conviction… His legacy reminds us that true leadership does not crave the spotlight; it quietly lights the path for others to follow.”
Dr Shallow added:
“While we have made meaningful strides in implementing his vision, we are now bound by duty and gratitude to complete the journey he began. West Indies cricket is stronger because Don Wehby cared.”
Chris Dehring, CEO of CWI and longtime friend, said:
“Don was never one for fanfare, but his contributions were seismic. His work on the Governance Task Force was more than reform; it was vision grounded in courage… Jamaica has lost a son of distinction, and the Caribbean, a champion of progress.”
A champion of reform and good governance
Wehby served as an Independent Director on the WICB from 2013 to 2017, chairing the Audit, Risk & Compliance Committee. In 2016, he led the first CWI governance reform task force, and in 2019 was reappointed as chair of the CWI Governance Reform Task Force. His tenure included reviews of the Patterson and Wilkin reports, culminating in the 2020 Wehby Report.
Cricket West Indies has extended its deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and colleagues. “May we continue the work he began,” the organization concluded. “And may his soul rest in eternal peace.”
