Former West Indies great Desmond Haynes wants to be their new coach of the regional side, and says he can be a father figure in the role.

He has received backing from his former team-mate and captain, the legendary Viv Richards.

Stuart law is leaving the post to become Middlesex Supremo next summer and West Indies will need a replacement ahead of the post-Christmas tour by England.

The decision will ultimately rest with director of cricket jimmy Adams and CWI chief executive Johnny Grave, and Haynes is desperate to be interviewed.

The 62 year old Haynes, was one of West Indies’ greatest openers. He scored 18 test centuries and 17 in ODI’S, forming a prolific partnership with his fellow Bajan Gordon Greenidge.

Among Law’s predecessors were his fellow Australians, Bennett King and john Dyson.