by Mick the Ram
There has been a largely positive reaction to the appointment of Roston Chase as the new West Indies Test captain, despite him not playing a match in that format for more than two years.
The 33-year-old succeeds Kraigg Brathwaite, who stepped down from the role in March of this year, after he had led the side for 39 matches since 2017.
The choice of the Barbados-born all-rounder as the new skipper came after what is being described as a “groundbreaking selection process” which has been “fully endorsed” by coach Daren Sammy; as has the engagement of Jomel Warrican as the new man’s vice-captain.
Chase played the last of his 49 Tests against South Africa in March 2023, and his landmark 50th appearance should see him lead the side in the first of a three-Test series against Australia, starting in Bridgetown on his home island, on 25 June.
The change is the latest adjustment in West Indies cricket, which has also seen Shai Hope take over the ODI and T20 captaincy roles from Rovman Powell, although it has been confirmed that he did decline to be considered for this Test post.
Six key areas addressed
Cricket West Indies (CWI) shortlisted five other players in addition to Chase for the position of captain; these were: Tevin Imlach, John Campbell, Joshua Da Silva, Justin Greaves and the man eventually picked to be the new skipper’s right-hand man, Jomel Warrican.
The final decision was made after a lengthy period of assessment which detailed six key areas. These included psychometric testing, to appraise leadership style and behavioural traits; as well as structured interviews focused on tactical approach, communication skills, and team culture.
The candidates were also evaluated on Test experience and prior captaincy credentials to determine who was best suited to the key role.
New benchmark
The selection committee from Cricket West Indies (CWI) said in a statement: “This selection process is one of the most comprehensive and forward-thinking we have undertaken.”
The governing body’s president, Kishore Shallow added: “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.”
