PORT-OF-SPAIN (Trinidad), June 14: There have been calls by several former regional and international cricketers for former West Indies wicket-keeper Deryck Murray to lead West Indies cricket. These have come in the wake of outgoing West Indies Cricket Board president Teddy Griffith’s decision not to seek a second term in office.

Former Trinidad & Tobago fast bowler and current United National Congress activist Dr Tim Gopeesingh said Murray has all that was necessary to fill the position.

“Murray has skills in management and, combined with his cricketing ability, he will undoubtedly be in an unenviable position as a main contender for the presidency,” he said.

“He is well respected by (officials of) other Caribbean countries and I think that he will be a good and ideal choice for the post.”

Former T&T and Windies off-spinner and captain Rangy Nanan said Murray will be an interesting candidate to head WICB.

“Having played the game at highest level, served as a diplomat, along with well-known management skills and ability, I think Murray has necessary experience and qualification for the job,” Nanan said. “I think it will be a good move for him to challenge for the position.”

Omar Khan, T&T’s most successful cricket manager in recent times, said he will support any move to have Murray as president of WICB.

“I think Murray is ideal candidate for job. He is a successful former Test cricketer and served in various managerial positions during his working career, which is definitely a good blend,” Khan said.—Agencies