John Campbell’s Suspension Withdrawn

Introduction to the Case

ST JOHN’S, Antigua, CMC – Jamaica Scorpions captain John Campbell will no longer face a four-game suspension from Cricket West Indies (CWI) for his part in last year’s CG United Super50 Cup final debacle following a ruling by CWI’s Disciplinary Tribunal on Friday.

Campbell, who admitted wrongdoing, was suspended for four games last December by CWI after being handed Level 3 charges along with Barbados Pride captain Raymon Reifer by match referee Leon King for failing to be present for the coin toss in the rain-affected final on November 23, 2024.

Withdrawal of Disciplinary Action

However, less than 24 hours after it was reported that Reifer’s charges had been dropped following submissions from his legal team, CWI has withdrawn the disciplinary action against Campbell.

The independent panel, chaired by Justice Patrick Thompson Jr. and including Justice Dale Staple, Madame Justice Jacqueline Cornelius-Thorne, Michael Findlay, and Sylvester Joseph, found procedural flaws.

“CWI has announced that, following a recent meeting of the Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Tribunal on Friday, 04 April 2025, the four-match suspension previously imposed on Jamaica Scorpions captain John Campbell has been officially withdrawn,” it said in a statement.

“The Tribunal was convened to hear the case involving Barbados Pride captain Raymon Reifer regarding a charge relating to his conduct at the CG United Super50 final on 23 November 2024.

Tribunal’s Findings

“During the proceedings, the Tribunal believed that the procedure of bringing the charge was flawed and the matter could not be heard. While the matter involving Campbell was not before the Tribunal, the issues raised during Reifer’s hearing informed CWI’s decision to withdraw the charges against Campbell.

“It is essential to note the view is not about the merit of the charge but rather the process of the charge being laid.

“In light of the Tribunal’s findings, CWI respects the independent panel’s position and has rescinded the four-match suspension initially handed down to Mr. Campbell. However, it is important to note that his admission of responsibility and formal apology remain on record,” the statement added.

Prize Money and Match Fees

However, the Tribunal made it clear that it did not issue any ruling on prize money or match fees arising from the final.

As a result, CWI maintained its previous position and would withhold all disbursements to both teams because the final match did not take place.

Reaction from CWI Director of Cricket

CWI Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, said democracy had prevailed yet again.

“We acknowledge the Tribunal’s observations and respect their role in ensuring procedural fairness. While Mr. Campbell’s expression of remorse and admission has been accepted, we recognize the concerns raised during Reifer’s hearing regarding the overall process and have decided to withdraw the suspension,” Bascombe said.

“That said, this does not absolve individuals of responsibility where serious breaches have occurred.

“No ruling has been made to declare a winner or overturn any match outcome—this is purely a matter of addressing procedural fairness. Neither has anyone been found guilty nor innocent of charges. Our commitment to discipline, professionalism, and the integrity of the game remains unwavering,” he added.

Future Disciplinary Action

As a result of the Tribunal’s findings and in the interest of consistency, CWI will not pursue further disciplinary action against Raymon Reifer at this stage regarding his conduct in the final.

Conclusion

The withdrawal of the disciplinary action against John Campbell brings an end to a long and contentious saga. While the decision may be seen as a victory for Campbell, it is essential to note that the Tribunal’s findings were based on procedural flaws rather than the merit of the charge. The CWI’s commitment to discipline, professionalism, and the integrity of the game remains unwavering, and it is likely that similar cases will be dealt with in a similar manner in the future.