A golden moment in cricketing history will be relived this June, as Cricket West Indies (CWI) and the West Indies Players’ Association (WIPA) join forces to host the 8th CWI/WIPA Awards Gala, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the West Indies’ iconic victory in the 1975 ICC Men’s World Cup.
The highly anticipated event will take place on Sunday, June 22, 2025, at the luxurious Wyndham Grand Barbados Sam Lord’s Castle, an elegant setting befitting the magnitude of this dual celebration. The evening promises to be a dazzling tribute to both past and present — spotlighting the legends who forged the path and the modern stars who continue to carry the maroon legacy.
The 1975 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup marked the birth of a dynasty. Led by the indomitable Clive Lloyd, the West Indies defeated Australia at Lord’s in a gripping final that crowned them the inaugural world champions. Lloyd’s unforgettable century and the sheer brilliance of the squad ushered in an era of dominance that inspired generations across the Caribbean and beyond.
Fifty years on, the memories still resonate deeply.
> “This celebration reflects our shared commitment to elevate the game and recognises the contributions of our cricketers,” said Dr. Kishore Shallow, President of CWI. “It is vital that we create platforms to honor their dedication and hard work, while also paying tribute to the rich legacy of our cricketing heroes from the past.”
The CWI/WIPA Awards Gala, now in its 8th edition, has become a flagship event on the cricketing calendar. It is a night of elegance, unity, and reflection, showcasing excellence in West Indies cricket — from breakthrough performers to lifetime achievements.
Wavell Hinds, President and CEO of WIPA, emphasized the enduring power of the sport to unite and uplift.
> “This event reflects the strong partnership between CWI and WIPA to recognise excellence in West Indies cricket,” Hinds remarked. “Through this Awards Gala, we not only celebrate the present generation of players who continue to make their mark, but also honor the past achievements that have paved the way.”
The highlight of the evening will undoubtedly be the special tribute to the 1975 World Cup-winning squad. Archival footage, heartfelt speeches, and appearances by surviving members are expected to provide a poignant and powerful reflection on a defining chapter in Caribbean sporting history.
Fans across the region will also get to join in the celebration, with the event set to be televised live. Further announcements on broadcast details, award nominees, and the full event program are expected in the coming days.
From the echoes of Lord’s to the modern-day heroes on the pitch, the 2025 CWI/WIPA Awards Gala will be more than a night of accolades — it will be a celebration of identity, resilience, and an enduring cricketing legacy that continues to shine brightly, fifty years on.
For updates on the Awards Gala and coverage of West Indies cricket, follow @WindiesCricket on social media and visit www.windiescricket.com
