Alford Howell's father, John, was known as the father of Nevis cricket and his son followed in his footsteps as a batsman who was strong against fast bowling. He made his debut for Nevis in 1964 but in 1969 was banned for two years after refusing to walk when given out against Antigua, an incident which sparked a riot which led to the game being abandoned. While at the University of the West Indies he captained the side against the touring New Zealanders in 1972, top scoring with 59, and he played his final game for Nevis in 1976.