Roston Chase embraces leadership role ahead of Australia Test series
“Born to lead and not to follow.” That is the mantra driving Roston Chase, who will become the 38th player to captain the West Indies Test team when he leads the side against Australia at Kensington Oval on June 25 in the opening Test of the Sir Frank Worrell Trophy.
Standing at six-foot-five, the Barbados-born Chase is relishing the opportunity to guide West Indies cricket back to relevance in the longest format. Now 33, Chase is looking to channel a career of all-round excellence into meaningful leadership during a pivotal summer.
Chase made history in his 2016 debut series against India, scoring a century and taking a five-wicket haul in the same Test—joining an elite group of five West Indians to achieve that feat. He has since scored four additional Test centuries and delivered standout bowling performances, including a match-winning 8 for 60 against England.
A captain for the region
Leading the West Indies is more than just a role for Chase—it’s a calling.
“I am honoured to be given the opportunity to lead the West Indies Test team,” Chase said. “This is a real privilege… and I’m excited about getting started this summer against Australia and looking forward to what this team can achieve.”
Chase acknowledged the weight of expectation but is determined to instill passion and discipline in the team.
“Playing for the West Indies means everything to me, so I’m ready for the responsibilities which come with the job at hand—including showing that passion and desire to our loyal fans in the region and across the world.”
The journey from Christ Church to captaincy
While Chase always demonstrated leadership instincts, captaincy wasn’t part of the initial plan.
“I always had leadership skills when I was younger, but I did not see myself at this stage at the start… but as you get older and understand the game more, you realise the possibilities.”
A key turning point came during his early years in domestic cricket, prompted by a candid conversation with his mother following his debut for Barbados.
“I wasn’t cemented in the team… so my mother gave me two years to prove myself or I’d have to go back to school permanently,” Chase recalled. “That ultimatum pushed me to take my game seriously.”
Family, mentorship and mindset
Chase also credits his father and early coach Henderson Springer with shaping his cricket journey. He began as a fast bowler before finding success as an off-spinner and all-rounder.
“Henderson Springer told me that contributing with both bat and ball makes you hard to drop. I took that seriously and never stopped bowling.”
Leading with humility and purpose
Now stepping up from his role as vice-captain, Chase is determined to lead with clarity, humility, and focus.
“I just want to have fun with my troops and help them grow as players and as people,” Chase said. “We want to win games, of course, but it’s about building something meaningful.”
As West Indies cricket enters a new chapter, Roston Chase stands tall—not only in stature but in character—ready to lead the maroon army with pride and a vision for revival.
This article was written by Jerome Foster, Content and Media Officer assigned to the West Indies Men’s Senior Team.
