Roston Chase named West Indies Test captain after CWI’s innovative selection process
St. John’s, Antigua – Cricket West Indies (CWI) has appointed Roston Chase as the new West Indies Test captain, with Jomel Warrican serving as vice-captain. The decision was unanimously approved by the CWI Board of Directors on May 16, 2025, ahead of the home Test series against Australia next month.
This leadership transition follows the completion of a groundbreaking and structured selection process—the most robust of its kind in West Indies cricket history. The appointment signals a new chapter for the Test team and a strategic move towards building long-term success and accountability through data-driven decision-making.
A new era of captaincy selection for West Indies cricket
The selection framework integrated multiple dimensions, including psychometric testing, tactical and leadership interviews, and a weighted scoring model across six key areas: leadership, peer respect, cricket knowledge, personal conduct, media communication, and psychometric results. This marks a major evolution in leadership selection for West Indies cricket, aligning with modern standards in global sport governance.
The shortlisted candidates for the captaincy included John Campbell, Tevin Imlach, Joshua Da Silva, Justin Greaves, Roston Chase, and Jomel Warrican. Notably, Shai Hope, who currently captains the ODI and T20I sides, declined consideration to remain focused on his existing leadership duties.
An expert panel led the process, comprising Head Coach Daren Sammy, Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe, and Chairman of the Cricket Strategy and Officiating Committee Enoch Lewis. The final recommendation of Chase and Warrican was subsequently approved by the CWI Board.
Leadership endorsed by the top brass
CWI President Dr. Kishore Shallow praised the thoroughness and innovation of the selection process: “This is one of the most comprehensive and forward-thinking leadership appointments we’ve ever undertaken. It sets a new benchmark for future captaincy selections.”
Daren Sammy, Head Coach of the West Indies men’s team, endorsed the new leadership: “Our new captain has earned the respect of his peers and demonstrated the qualities we need to lead this Test team into a new era. Fans across the Caribbean—this is your captain. Get behind him.”
Roston Chase to debut as captain vs. Australia in June
Roston Chase will make his captaincy debut during the “WI Home: Full Ah Energy” series against Australia, beginning with the first Test at Kensington Oval on June 25, 2025. CWI views this new leadership as a critical pillar in the ongoing resurgence of West Indies cricket.
The appointment is also being positioned as a potential model for future captaincy selections across all formats, reinforcing CWI’s commitment to professionalism, performance, and team culture.
Cricket West Indies acknowledged the professionalism and dedication of all candidates involved and expressed optimism that this bold new leadership approach will accelerate progress on the international stage.
