ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – A transformative second has arrived for West Indies cricket as Cricket West Indies (CWI) publicizes main management modifications forward of a vital house season.
These transitions set the stage for the crew’s future, beginning with the brand new ICC World Take a look at Championship cycle in opposition to Australia and a tour of England and Eire to organize for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka.
Brathwaite ends his tenure as Take a look at captain
After three years of main the West Indies Take a look at crew, Kraigg Brathwaite has formally stepped down as captain. Having first conveyed his intentions to CWI management earlier this yr, Brathwaite ensured his resignation allowed ample time for a clean transition. His determination comes simply forward of the house collection in opposition to Australia, enabling him to shift focus fully to his batting as he approaches his milestone one hundredth Take a look at match.
Brathwaite’s tenure as captain, which started in March 2021, has been outlined by historic triumphs. Beneath his management, West Indies secured their first Take a look at victory in Australia in 27 years with an exhilarating eight-run win in Brisbane in 2024. He additionally led the crew to its first Take a look at victory in Pakistan in 34 years, whereas guiding the squad to a collection win in opposition to England at house in 2022 and a 2-0 collection overcome Bangladesh in difficult pandemic circumstances in 2021.
CWI extends its deepest gratitude to Brathwaite for his unwavering management and dedication, recognizing the affect he has made in shaping the Take a look at crew’s identification. A brand new Take a look at captain will likely be named within the coming weeks.
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Shai Hope named T20I captain as Powell steps apart
The white-ball squad will even see a shift in management, as Shai Hope has been appointed the brand new T20I captain, including to his current function as ODI captain. Hope succeeds Rovman Powell, who led the T20 crew with distinction since Could 2023.
Powell’s captaincy was marked by a resurgence in West Indies T20 cricket, securing house collection victories over powerhouse groups like India, England, and South Africa. Beneath his management, the crew reached the Tremendous 8 stage of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 and climbed from ninth to fifth within the ICC T20I rankings.
CWI acknowledges Powell’s invaluable contributions, thanking him for his management and dedication. Shifting ahead, the group goals to optimize his function as a key batsman within the T20 setup, guaranteeing his continued affect on the crew’s success.
Management modifications backed by key stakeholders
Reflecting on these developments, CWI Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, expressed gratitude for Brathwaite and Powell’s contributions whereas endorsing the management transitions.
“Kraigg Brathwaite has been an excellent chief for our Take a look at crew, guiding the squad with self-discipline, resilience, and a deep understanding of the sport. His contributions have been invaluable, and below his management, now we have witnessed historic moments that will likely be remembered for years to return. We thank Kraigg for his service as captain and sit up for his continued affect as a senior participant.
By way of our white-ball management, after receiving the recommendation of Head Coach Daren Sammy on the intention to transition to Shai Hope, we spoke to Rovman Powell, who acquired the choice with professionalism and beauty. I’ve expressed to him that he should really feel dignified by his contributions to West Indies cricket, as he has performed a vital function in elevating our T20 crew to new heights. His management has left a robust basis, and we’re grateful for his efforts.”
Head Coach Daren Sammy strengthened the boldness in Shai Hope’s elevation to the T20I captaincy, highlighting his analytical method and management qualities:
“Shai Hope’s appointment alerts a progressive shift for West Indies cricket, given his success with the 50-over crew within the final 18 months. Because the crew continues its evolution, Hope blends instinctive decision-making with analytical precision, utilizing in-depth match knowledge and participant efficiency insights to form technique. Shai is a robust believer in crew performances and his meticulous preparation, coupled along with his calm and composed demeanor below strain, makes him a really perfect chief at this stage.”
As these management transitions take impact, CWI stays assured within the crew’s course, guaranteeing continued stability and progress throughout all codecs of the sport.
