Roston Chase Appointed West Indies Test Captain After Innovative CWI Selection Process

Roston Chase Named West Indies Test Captain After Groundbreaking Leadership Selection Process

St. John’s, Antigua – May 16, 2025: In a landmark decision that reflects both vision and innovation, Cricket West Indies (CWI) has officially appointed Roston Chase as the new West Indies Test Captain, with Jomel Warrican selected as his deputy. The announcement comes ahead of the high-profile home Test series against Australia, scheduled to begin on June 25, 2025, at Kensington Oval, Barbados.

The appointments, unanimously ratified by the CWI Board of Directors, follow the implementation of a comprehensive, data-informed, and multi-dimensional captaincy selection framework a first in West Indies cricket history. This revolutionary approach is set to redefine how leadership roles are identified and filled in the region, anchoring the decision-making process in objectivity, transparency, and strategic alignment.

CWI’s Leadership Evolution: A Strategic Step Forward

Recognizing that captaincy is more than tactical acumen, CWI adopted a selection model that focused on leadership impact, player influence, communication, and long-term cultural alignment. The process featured psychometric evaluations, structured interviews, and weighted scoring across six key parameters: leadership ability, team respect, cricketing knowledge, personal discipline, media interaction, and psychological readiness.

The shortlisted candidates included John Campbell, Tevin Imlach, Joshua Da Silva, Justin Greaves, Roston Chase, and Jomel Warrican all of whom bring varied levels of Test experience and domestic leadership. Notably, Shai Hope, who currently leads the ODI and T20I squads, respectfully opted out to focus on his existing duties, allowing space for a Test-specific captaincy pathway.

The final decision was shaped by an elite selection panel comprising Head Coach Daren Sammy, Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe, and Cricket Strategy and Officiating Committee Chair Enoch Lewis. Their evaluation method, inspired by high-performance models in global sports, prioritized behavioral metrics and leadership effectiveness over conventional seniority.

Roston Chase: From Reliable All-Rounder to Test Captain

The promotion of Roston Chase, a 32-year-old all-rounder from Barbados, marks a significant turning point in the leadership dynamics of West Indies cricket. Known for his calm demeanor, resilience under pressure, and technical solidity, Chase has quietly carved a space for himself in the Test format since his debut in 2016.

With over 45 Test matches under his belt and more than 2,400 runs, including five centuries, Chase has also contributed consistently with his off-spin, becoming a dependable second-innings option. His temperament, team-first attitude, and composure have often been highlighted as natural leadership traits.

Chase’s elevation to captaincy reflects not just performance, but the respect he commands in the dressing room, his ability to lead by example, and a clear understanding of team dynamics. His vice-captain, Jomel Warrican, brings a similarly measured and disciplined approach ideal for the rigors of the longest format.

Leadership with a Long-Term Vision

CWI President Dr. Kishore Shallow hailed the new selection process as “the most comprehensive and forward-thinking” the board has undertaken to date. Speaking after the board’s decision, he emphasized that this strategic approach was necessary to usher in a new era of accountability and progress.

“We are deeply impressed with the professionalism and objectivity shown throughout the process. It sets a new standard for how we appoint leaders not just in Tests, but across formats,” Dr. Shallow said.

Coach Daren Sammy, himself a former West Indies captain, expressed full confidence in Chase. “He understands the legacy and the responsibility that comes with the role. He’s earned the trust of his peers and support staff, and we’re excited to build something special with him at the helm,” Sammy said.

What This Means for West Indies Cricket

For West Indies cricket, this moment is more than just a captaincy change. It reflects a commitment to cultural reset, performance continuity, and sustainable team development. Under Chase, CWI envisions a Test unit that balances flair with discipline, and experience with purpose.

In a time when global cricket faces structural challenges format overload, franchise commitments, and player fatigue CWI’s approach stands out for its clarity and modernity. The board’s decision to prioritize leadership metrics signals a desire to move beyond short-termism and towards holistic cricket development.

The introduction of psychometric assessments, widely used in other elite sporting domains, is expected to be replicated across future appointments, including junior levels and women’s cricket.

Looking Ahead: West Indies vs Australia Test Series

Chase’s first major test as skipper begins against Australia in what is expected to be a highly competitive series. Australia, currently one of the top Test sides globally, will pose a tough challenge. The two-match home series will serve as a litmus test for the new leadership group.

CWI’s flagship “WI Home: Full Ah Energy” campaign will kick off with the opening Test at Kensington Oval, Barbados, before moving to Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad, for the second match.

Fans across the Caribbean are being urged to get behind the new captain and his team. The region’s Test legacy has always been rooted in community pride and passionate support, and CWI hopes this new chapter will rekindle fan connection with the longest format.