Follow UsIn what will be his 50th Test, Roston Chase will captain the West Indies team for the first time ever in the longest format after he was officially announced as the next Test skipper by the Cricket West Indies (CWI) on May 16 (Friday).
Chase, who averages 26 with the bat and 46 with the ball, having scored 2265 runs and taken 85 wickets, was given the opportunity after he aced all the tests amongst a six-man shortlist interviewed by the CWI on various metrics.
Left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican will be Chase's deputy. However, if it was not for fellow Bajan batter Shai Hope declining to lead in the longest format, Chase might not have got the chance. Hope is already captain of the ODI and T20I sides.
Chase replaces Kraigg Brathwaite as Test captain, who led West Indies in 39 Tests between 2017 and 2025, making him the joint-fourth most capped Test captain of the West Indies, alongside legendary Gary Sobers. Only Clive Lloyd (74), Vivian Richards (50), and Brian Lara (47) have captained in more Tests than Brathwaite.
Chase will have his task cut out as the all-rounder last played the longest format for the West Indies two years ago in South Africa. Head coach Daren Sammy is confident that the 33-year-old will be able to inspire his team.
"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,” he said in a press release by the CWI.
Chase's first assignment as captain will be a three-Test home series against Australia, starting June 25 onwards.