[www.inewsguyana.com] – The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) has sent its sympathy in a letter to President of Cricket South Africa, Chris Nenzani, on the passing of world figure Mr. Nelson Mandela.
The moving letter said that the Board of Directors of the West Indies Cricket Board, the West Indies team, our management and staff and all stakeholders of West Indies cricket, send their deepest condolences on sad occasion of the departure, from this earthly realm, of the incomparable world figure Mr. Nelson Mandela.
The letter described Mr. Mandela’s humanity, fortitude, grace and humility as something beyond any comparison.
“These values which he has indelibly etched in our hearts and minds through the example of his phenomenal life are viewed by us in West Indies cricket as critical pillars in the development of our game both regionally and globally”, the letter said.
“His life has been a source of inspiration for our players, administrators, officials and numerous others involved with West Indies cricket.
“We remain particularly honoured that the West Indies was South Africa’s first opponent upon your country’s return to international cricket after Mr. Mandela’s release from legal confines. We are further honoured to have had Mr. Mandela’s love and respect for the history and legacy of West Indies cricket, the warmth extended to us and the importance which he always accorded the West Indies.
“For these and countless other reasons we too feel a deep sense of loss. Madiba’s life, as you are aware, has deeply impacted and influenced Caribbean life and our people. The entire region is consumed at this time in both mourning his passing and celebrating his life.
“As the West Indies is scheduled to tour South Africa in the 2014/2015 season I shall be grateful for our two boards, at an appropriate time, to discuss tangibly a joint initiative to celebrate Mr. Mandela’s life.
“Cricket, sport and humanity have all been advanced beyond measure for Madiba’s presence and influence. For this we are eternally grateful. I end by repeating the sentiments of his dear friend, the Dalai Lama.
“He was a man of courage, principle and unquestionable integrity, a great human being, someone of whom we can truly say, ‘He lived a meaningful life’.”
