The CWI/WIPA Awards reached a powerful crescendo on Sunday, June 22, 2025, with Cricket West Indies (CWI) and the West Indies Players’ Association (WIPA) delivering an unforgettable tribute to the pioneers of West Indies cricket – the legendary 1975 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup-winning team.
Held in the elegant Trident Ballroom at the Wyndham Grand Barbados, the event was a heartfelt celebration of regional pride, sporting greatness, and enduring legacy. The tribute featured rare archival footage, compelling storytelling, and thunderous standing ovations, as surviving team members or their families were presented with commemorative medallions and exquisitely crafted mahogany sculptures.
A Legacy of Pioneers
Fifty years after their historic win, the tribute honored the squad that reshaped the cricketing world. The 1975 champions were the first-ever winners of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, and their victory marked the start of a golden age in West Indies cricket.
The team members or their families received unique mahogany sculptures designed by award-winning artist Reginald Medford. Each piece, crafted from 25-year-old Barbados mahogany, reflected the recipient’s unique contribution to the sport.
Dr. Kishore Shallow’s Moving Tribute
CWI President Dr. Kishore Shallow delivered a moving tribute, acknowledging the legends who forever changed West Indies cricket, saying:
“Tonight, we honour our giants… You were not just cricketers. You were revolutionaries.”
Dr. Shallow also shared that, in addition to the medallions and sculptures, each attending legend would receive a financial token of appreciation — US$10,000, a gesture made possible through the support of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL).
A Gift to Remember
In a stirring moment, Sir Clive Lloyd presented a special gift to Dr. Shallow on behalf of the 1975 team — a portrait of the World Cup-winning squad. The artwork was commissioned from renowned Barbadian artist Shane Eastmond, the grandson of Antiguan cricket legend Sir Sidney Walling.
Recognizing Legends and Contributions
Veteran broadcaster and commentator Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira was also recognized for his longstanding service to the game. The event highlighted the deep respect and admiration for the heroes who paved the way for future generations of West Indian cricketers.
A Turning Point for West Indies Cricket
Earlier in the day, the CWI Board of Directors held an interactive meeting to discuss the challenges currently facing West Indies cricket. The conversation focused on the importance of inclusivity and a collaborative approach to rebuilding the team’s success.
The meeting was enriched by contributions from cricketing icons like Sir Clive Lloyd, Sir Andy Roberts, Deryck Murray, and Alvin Kallicharran, who shared invaluable insights from their era of dominance.
Celebrating and Honoring Legacy
As past and present players, officials, and dignitaries came together, the spirit of 1975 was reignited. The tribute served as a reminder that Caribbean cricket’s heartbeat has always echoed across the global stage.
The 50th anniversary tribute not only celebrated the past but also served as a call to action for the current generation of cricketers — to honor the legacy by forging new paths of greatness.
Relive the magic of the Gala event by watching it again here.
