Sir Clive Lloyd has called for a reevaluation of the global revenue distribution model in cricket, emphasising the need to address financial inequality. During his recent receipt of the Order of the Caribbean Community (OCC) in Grenada, Lloyd urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to address what he considers financial inequity towards the West Indies.
Highlighting the disparity in revenue distribution, Lloyd reminded the cricketing community that during the peak years of West Indies cricket, the regional board did not receive financial rewards. He argued that now, with the global game on stronger financial ground, the West Indies deserve a fair share. Barbados Today reported Lloyd’s remarks, noting that the current distribution model sees England, Australia, and India each receiving $180 million, while the West Indies receive only $80 million.
Lloyd questioned the basis for this disparity, noting that during the West Indies' dominance, their team was a major draw for international tours, effectively serving as a financial boon for other boards. He criticised the lack of support for the West Indies now that they are facing challenges, and called for the West Indies board to actively seek better financial support from the ICC.
The ICC revenue distribution was reorganised in 2015, with allocations based on the contribution to ICC revenue from each country. With approximately 90 percent of revenue generated from India, the BCCI receives about 39 percent of the ICC's income.
Lloyd expressed frustration that during the West Indies' successful years, they played extensive tours but did not benefit financially. He believes that the current financial imbalance is even more pronounced now, despite the increased funds flowing into cricket. Lloyd urged the West Indies board to rally influential figures to advocate for special financial support from the ICC.