Roach says he will remain loyal as West Indies cricket faces financial cuts

Kemar Roach told The Hindu on Saturday at the Super Kings Academy in Chennai: "From things I have seen and heard in the media, these are dark times," but said he would remain loyal to West Indies cricket despite the situation.

West Indies players are confronting a 25% reduction in retainer fees and other cost-cutting measures, and Roach, a member of the West Indies red-ball contingent training at the Super Kings Academy, addressed the fallout while preparing with teammates. He remains an active Test bowler, described in the report as still troubling batters, and is identified in the article as the owner of 304 Test wickets.

Roach said players must concentrate on performance and pride rather than off-field distractions. He told The Hindu: "But as players, we have to focus on what we can focus on, which is our performances. For me, it is all about pride."

On his reasons for continuing to play for the West Indies, Roach said: "I have always relished performing for the West Indies. We have such a rich cricket history... being part of history, it is what you live for." He added that when he steps on the field he does not think about money and instead focuses on influencing the game and getting a win.

Roach called the board's recent measures, including the suspension of the regional men’s 50-over and women’s T20 tournaments, a "worrying sign" and urged reassurance for younger players. He said: "The Board needs to reassure the younger generation that there is a future for them. You have to find a way to keep them interested and motivated. Talking about money, we have to feed our families and improve our lives."

The article notes Roach's age as 38 and cites his personal commitment to keep playing while his body allows him to continue in the red-ball setup at the Super Kings Academy. He concluded his remarks with: "I will give my all until then."