Roston Chase Named West Indies Test Captain: A New Era Begins Ahead of Australia Series

Roston Chase has been appointed the new Test captain of the West Indies men's team. Having last played a Test match more than two years ago, the 33-year-old will take over from Kraigg Brathwaite, who resigned from his role in March earlier this year.

Chase’s first assignment as captain will come against Australia in a three-match home series slated for June and July. The opening Test in Bridgetown, Barbados, Chase’s home ground, will be a landmark moment, as it also marks his 50th Test appearance since debuting in 2016. Over his Test career, Chase has scored 2265 runs at an average of 26.33, including five centuries. With the ball, he’s proven handy too, picking up 85 wickets, including a memorable 8 for 60 against England in 2019 at Kensington Oval.

Cricket West Indies (CWI) chose Chase after a careful and detailed selection process. This included psychometric tests and interviews with a panel made up of head coach Daren Sammy, Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe, and Enoch Lewis, who chairs the Cricket Strategy and Officiating Committee. The final group of candidates also featured John Campbell, Tevin Imlach, Joshua Da Silva, Justin Greaves, and the newly named vice-captain, Jomel Warrican.

Head Coach Darren Sammy Voices Full Support for Newly Appointed Captain

"I fully endorse this appointment. Our new captain has earned the respect of his peers, understands the responsibility that comes with the role, and has shown the leadership qualities we need to take this team forward. I urge fans across the region to rally behind him--we're building something special," Head coach Darren Sammy said.

CWI President Praises New Leadership Selection Process

"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. It sets a new benchmark for leadership appointments in West Indies cricket," CWI president, Kishore Shallow, said.

Interestingly, Shai Hope has decided to lead the West Indies in both ODIs and T20Is, but he chose not to put his name forward for the Test captaincy. He said he wants to focus more on his increasing role in white-ball cricket and give it his full attention.

Chase’s appointment marks the start of a new chapter for West Indies Test cricket as they begin their journey in the new ICC World Test Championship cycle. All eyes are now on the Barbadian to see if he can set the tone, lead from the front, and help bring back the glory days of West Indies red-ball cricket.

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