West Indies cricket captain reveals details of chat with King Charles after palace meeting

King Charles has hosted the West Indies cricket team ahead of its opening Test match of the summer against England at Lord’s.

The King, who is head of the Commonwealth, expressed his care and concern for those affected by Hurricane Beryl as he met the squad at Buckingham Palace.

Speaking after the audience with His Majesty, captain Kraigg Brathwaite said: “We were honoured to be invited and it was a great opportunity for the whole team to be here.

“Hurricane Beryl has been devastating but we want to make West Indians proud and put a smile on their faces during these tough times.”

Brathwaite said he had a “good chat” with the King, including speaking about horses, and that he was hoping to “make the region proud” with their performances.

Earlier this week, the monarch sent “heartfelt condolences” to the people of the region following the death and destruction caused by the hurricane.

He spoke to the prime ministers of Grenada, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Jamaica on Friday to hear more about the devastation.

It is understood the King has asked to be kept informed about the situation of those affected by Hurricane Beryl and will likely make further calls with leaders in the coming days.

The UK has announced a new support package up to £500,000 for Caribbean countries affected by the storm, which was the earliest Category 5 hurricane on record to form in the Atlantic.