The Antigua and Barbuda Falcons have officially apologized to Cricket West Indies (CWI) after their coach, Paul Nixon, criticized the board for how it handled all-rounder Justin Greaves’ injury. Nixon’s sharp remarks created debate during the ongoing Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2025, leading the team to clear up their position.
Nixon, who became the Falcons’ head coach this season, voiced his frustration after their eight-wicket defeat to Trinidad and Tobago on August 27. He said the franchise had not been informed by CWI about Greaves’ injury, which happened during West Indies’ ODI series against Pakistan earlier in the month.
“I’m really disappointed because we had no communication from Cricket West Indies about Justin Greaves’ injury. He joined us already injured, and we only found out just before the game. I felt that was unprofessional and disrespectful. He even had an injection, but it didn’t work. Honestly, I’m not happy with the way he returned from West Indies cricket. The communication was very poor, and now we’ve lost one of our key all-rounders, which is a big setback,” he told the Indian Express.
Statement highlights Nixon’s regret, emphasizes mutual respect for West Indies cricket management
In response to Nixon’s remarks, the Falcons issued an official statement aiming to mend their relationship with CWI. They clarified that the comments were never meant to disrespect the board or question its role in managing players.
Paul Nixon, head coach of the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons, along with the team management, wants to clarify his recent comments about Cricket West Indies (CWI) during the Caribbean Premier League (CPL). They stressed that there was no intention to disrespect or undermine CWI’s work. Nixon regrets all his remarks. Both he and the Falcons apologize for any unintended offense caused to CWI staff or management. They remain committed to maintaining a strong, respectful, and cooperative relationship with CWI to support and grow West Indies cricket.
The Falcons, who played their first CPL season in 2024 with Shivnarine Chanderpaul as coach, had a challenging debut, finishing fifth. In the current season under Paul Nixon, they have won three out of seven matches, with one no-result, and are currently third in the standings. Their next game is against the Saint Lucia Kings on August 31.
FAQ
Why did the Antigua & Barbuda Falcons apologize to Cricket West Indies (CWI)?
The Falcons apologized after their head coach, Paul Nixon, publicly criticized CWI regarding the handling of all-rounder Justin Greaves’ injury, which caused controversy during the CPL 2025 season.
What were Paul Nixon’s original comments about CWI?
Nixon expressed frustration that the Falcons were not informed about Greaves’ injury status before the match, describing the communication as poor and unprofessional.
How did the Falcons clarify their position?
The Falcons issued an official statement emphasizing that Nixon’s remarks were not meant to disrespect CWI or undermine its role in player management.
What did the apology statement say?
The statement said Nixon regrets his comments and the Falcons apologized for any unintended offense. They stressed their commitment to a respectful and collaborative partnership with CWI.
