JCA looks to offer central retainer contracts in future

Jermaine Lannaman, Gleaner Writer

President of the Jamaica Cricket Association (JCA), Paul Campbell, says at this time his association is unable to offer Jamaica's players central retainer contracts, due to financial constraints.

Only last week, the Barbados Cricket Association (BCA) offered its players central retainer contracts, becoming the first country in the region to make the move.

However, Campbell says it could be just a matter of time before his association follow suit.

"It is part of the JCA's plans to get to a stage of contracting players, similar to what the West Indies Cricket Board (WIC) and Barbados have done," he said.

"We consider it an important part for the development of cricket and as soon as our finances are in better condition, it is something that we will be looking at," Campbell added.

The BCA, which is headed by former West Indies player, Joel Garner, last week issued retainers to 15 players in what the association said is a move aimed at offering job security and professionalising the game in that country.

Among the 15

Included among the 15 were 13 males and two females and the contracts were to be made retroactive to December 1, 2011.

"It is not only about a more professional approach, but it is also giving those players the opportunity to play cricket non-stop and to do all the things necessary to bring the skill level to what we would want for cricketers going forward," Garner was quoted as saying.

Campbell, in the meanwhile, praised the BCA for their initiative and pointed to the fact that their strong financial position, made possible by proceeds from that country's national lottery, made things much easier for them to offer the contracts.

"Barbados, from a financial standing, are in a better and stronger position than other territories, as part of their revenues are guaranteed by a way of percentage of their national lottery. So it is good to see them take the lead and they should be commended."

The JCA also receives revenue from Jamaica's national lottery. However, the arrangements are different to that of the BCA, with the local association receiving its funds via the Sports Development Foundation, which is a subsidiary of the government's lottery revenues collection agency, the CHASE Fund.