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Roston Chase Appointed as West Indies Men’s Test Captain Ahead of Australia Series
A New Era Begins: Roston Chase Takes Over from Kraigg Brathwaite
In a major leadership overhaul, Cricket West Indies (CWI) has officially named Roston Chase as the new captain of the West Indies men’s Test cricket team. This appointment marks a bold step forward for the Caribbean side as it enters a new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. The 33-year-old Chase succeeds Kraigg Brathwaite, who stepped down from the role in March 2025 after a prolonged tenure.
Chase’s return to the Test side is notable, as he last featured in a red-ball match over two years ago. Despite the hiatus, CWI believes his maturity, experience, and leadership potential make him the ideal candidate to lead the team through its rebuilding phase.
First Assignment: Test Series Against Australia
Roston Chase will officially begin his captaincy during the upcoming home Test series against Australia. This highly anticipated series will also mark the beginning of the new WTC cycle for both nations. West Indies fans will be eager to see how the team performs under his guidance against one of the top-ranked Test sides.
CWI has also appointed left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican as the vice-captain for the series, further strengthening the leadership group with a mix of experience and strategy.
Inside the Selection Process: A New Standard for Leadership Roles
A Comprehensive and Strategic Evaluation
Cricket West Indies revealed that the captaincy decision was based on a “data-informed, multi-dimensional framework,” reflecting a progressive approach to team leadership. The selection process considered not just playing records, but also leadership traits, team dynamics, and strategic thinking.
Among those in contention for leadership roles were John Campbell, Tevin Imlach, Joshua Da Silva, and Justin Greaves. However, it was Chase who emerged as the most suitable candidate after a rigorous evaluation process led by head coach Daren Sammy, Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe, and Chairman of the Cricket Strategy and Officiating Committee, Enoch Lewis.
Why Not Shai Hope? Dual Captain Declines Test Role
Focus on Limited-Overs Cricket
Shai Hope, the current white-ball captain for both ODI and T20I formats, was also considered during the early stages of the process. However, the CWI confirmed in an official release that Hope “respectfully declined consideration to focus on his existing leadership roles.” His decision allows him to continue guiding the West Indies in limited-overs cricket as they prepare for the ICC Champions Trophy and T20 World Cup.
Read more about West Indies’ recent ODI leadership strategy
Endorsements and Vision: Backing from the Top
CWI President Dr. Kishore Shallow praised the transparency and vision behind the appointment. “This selection process is one of the most comprehensive and forward-thinking we have undertaken. I am deeply impressed by the professionalism, objectivity, and strategic thinking that shaped the final decision,” Shallow stated.
Head coach Daren Sammy, himself a former West Indies captain, also gave his full backing to Chase. “He has earned the respect of his teammates, understands the significance of the captaincy, and has demonstrated the leadership qualities required to move the team forward. I urge fans across the Caribbean to rally behind him. We’re building something special,” Sammy said.
Player Profile: Roston Chase’s Red-Ball Journey
Stats and Career Highlights
Roston Chase has played 49 Test matches for West Indies, amassing 2,265 runs at an average of 26.33, including five centuries. His all-round capabilities are further emphasized by his bowling record—85 wickets, with career-best figures of 8 for 60 against England in Bridgetown in 2019. These statistics underscore his versatility and make him a balanced choice to lead the side.
More on Chase’s 8-wicket haul against England (via ESPNcricinfo)
Looking Ahead: West Indies in the WTC Cycle
With a new captain at the helm, the West Indies aim to climb the World Test Championship standings and restore their legacy in the longest format of the game. The home series against Australia will not only test the new leadership but also serve as a benchmark for the direction in which West Indies cricket is heading.
As Roston Chase prepares to lead the team into this fresh chapter, both fans and analysts will be watching closely. His appointment symbolizes a renewed focus on resilience, strategic planning, and team unity.
