Kraigg Brathwaite has stepped down as West Indies Test captain, while ODI skipper Shai Hope also replaced Rovman Powell as the new T20I captain.
Kraigg Brathwaite steps down as West Indies Test captain
Brathwaite captained the West Indies in 39 Tests from 2017 to 2022, winning ten and losing 22 matches. Among the highlights of his tenure were a historic Gabba Test victory over Australia in January 2022, a 1-1 drawn series in Pakistan in 2025, and a 1-0 home series win against England in 2022.
The West Indies are expected to name a new Test captain in the coming weeks. The home series against Australia – marking the start of their 2025–27 World Test Championship cycle – will serve as the first assignment for Brathwaite’s successor.
It is understood that Brathwaite made his intentions known to Cricket West Indies' (CWI) top brass before the conclusion of the team's Pakistan tour this year. His decision aimed to ensure continuity and a smooth transition for the incoming leadership.
A statement from CWI read: "Brathwaite wanted to ensure the team had a period of transition before his departure. As a result, he has submitted his resignation ahead of the home series against Australia, giving the new leadership time to establish itself. This series will be particularly special, allowing Brathwaite, who is two matches shy of 100 test matches, to double down on his batting without added responsibility."
WI salute you, Kraigg Brathwaite, for your unwavering leadership as Captain and to the people of the West Indies.
— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) March 31, 2025
We look forward to your continued dedication to West Indies cricket on and off the field. pic.twitter.com/xV0YuKktEc
Having played 98 Tests so far, Brathwaite will continue to open batting for the West Indies and is set to become only the 10th West Indies player to reach the 100-Test milestone.
Hope replaces Powell as WI T20I captain
Brathwaite isn’t the only leadership change for the West Indies. While Shai Hope remains ODI captain, he has also taken over as T20I skipper, replacing Rovman Powell, who led the side from May 2023, securing series wins against India, England, and South Africa.
Head coach Darren Sammy said he is excited about Hope’s appointment, "given his success with the 50-over team over the last 18 months".
"As the team continues its evolution, Hope blends instinctive decision-making with analytical precision, using in-depth match data and player-performance insights to shape strategy. Shai is a strong believer in team performances, and his meticulous preparation, coupled with his calm and composed demeanour under pressure, makes him an ideal leader at this stage," Sammy stated.
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