In an astonishingly tone-deaf decision, the International Cricket Council (ICC) plans to replace the revered poster of national cricket hero Sir Vivian Richards with their own logo at the entrance of the Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium for the upcoming T20 Cricket World Cup.

This move has sparked outrage and fierce resistance from the people of Antigua, who view it as a blatant act of disrespect to their cricket legends.

The stadium’s entrance, a site of immense national pride, features striking portraits of cricket icons Sir Andy Roberts, Sir Vivian Richards, Sir Curtly Ambrose, and Sir Richie Richardson.

These portraits are not mere decorations; they are a tribute to the illustrious contributions of these legends, who have brought unparalleled glory to West Indies cricket.

Replacing these portraits with a commercial logo not only undermines the achievements of these cricket heroes but also disregards the cultural and historical significance they hold for Antigua and the wider Caribbean.

The ICC’s decision appears to prioritize corporate branding over genuine respect for the sport’s heritage and the players who have shaped it.

Sources close to the matter reveal a growing defiance from Antigua, with many insisting that the portraits remain untouched. Antiguans are rallying to preserve the honor of their cricketing legends against what they perceive as an affront to their legacy.

This controversy calls into question the ICC’s sensitivity and understanding of cricket’s deep-rooted cultural impact.

As the T20 Cricket World Cup approaches, the ICC must reconsider this ill-advised move and acknowledge the profound respect owed to the legends who have immortalized the spirit of cricket in the hearts of millions.