Positive reaction to Roston Chase’s appointment as new West Indies Test skipper

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.”

Coach predicts “something special” building 

Coach Daren Sammy was equally impressed, saying he “fully endorsed” the appointment and declared: “Our new captain has earned the respect of his peers and understands the responsibility that comes with the role. 

He 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.”

Barbados PM’s delight

Mia Mottley, Prime Minister of the new captain’s home country of Barbados, was full of praise for his promotion when the decision was announced, describing it as an “extraordinary milestone for every Barbadian who believes in discipline, dignity and quiet determination.”

She went on to add: “Today, we witness history; Roston Chase, a humble son of the soil, is now the 10th Barbadian to captain the West Indies team.”

Looking to improve stats

Up to this point, Chase has scored 2,265 Test runs at an average of 26.33, with five hundreds – the last coming back in February 2019.

He has also taken 85 wickets including a memorable 8 for 60 against England in 2019 at Kensington Oval and they will be the opposition when he takes his squad place for the West Indies white-ball tour, starting 29 May.