Roston Chase named West Indies' Test captain

West Indies cricket has appointed spin-bowling all-rounder Roston Chase as the new captain of the Test team. The 33-year-old will return to the longest format after more than two years, and will be playing his first game as captain in the opening Test of the three-match home series against Australia on June 25 in Bridgetown, Barbados. This match will also be Chase’s 50th Test appearance.

The appointment was made following Kraigg Brathwaite’s resignation in March, ending a captaincy stint of 39 Tests. Brathwaite led West Indies to 10 wins, 7 draws, and 22 losses, including a memorable win at the Gabba in 2024, a home series victory over England in 2022, and a 1-1 draw in Pakistan earlier this year. Cricket West Indies (CWI) delayed naming its successor, citing the need for a thorough evaluation process.

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Windies Cricket@windiescricket

Roston Chase has been appointed the new West Indies Test captain. The appointment was unanimously approved by the CWI Board of Directors during its meeting held today, May 16, 2025. Congratulations Roston - WI are rallying behind you!🌴🏏

11:50 PM · May 16, 2025

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Chase was picked as the preferred candidate from a six-man shortlist that included John Campbell, Tevin Imlach, Joshua Da Silva, Justin Greaves, and Jomel Warrican, who has been named vice-captain. The selection process, described by CWI as one of their most comprehensive and forward-thinking, involved psychometric testing and an assessment of leadership style, behaviour, and suitability. CWI President Kishore Shallow praised the approach.

"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 as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

Former West Indies skipper and current head coach Daren Sammy was also delighted by the approach to choosing the team's leader.

"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."

Chase, who has previously captained West Indies in one ODI and one T20I, now takes on the red-ball format, where he debuted in 2016. A solid start to his Test career saw him average 48.53 in his first 10 Tests with three centuries, including a memorable hundred against India in Jamaica. However, his recent form dip sees him currently averaging 26.33 with 2265 runs and has 85 wickets with his offspin.