Barbadian all-rounder Roston Chase has been named captain of the West Indies Test side for the upcoming home series against Australia in June, with St Vincent and the Grenadines’ Jomel Warrican appointed vice-captain.
The appointments were confirmed on Friday, with Cricket West Indies (CWI) stating that both were “unanimously approved by the CWI Board of Directors during its meeting held today, May 16.”
Chase, an offspin-bowling all-rounder, and Warrican, a left-arm orthodox spinner and lower-order batsman, take on their roles as CWI ushers in what it describes as a “new era” of structured leadership. This will be Chase’s first assignment as captain of the regional side.
The “WI Home: Full Ah Energy” Test series against Australia begins on 25 June at Kensington Oval, Barbados.
In a detailed statement, CWI said “this announcement follows the completion of a groundbreaking, robust and structured process to evaluate and recommend the next captain and vice-captain of the West Indies Test team. Recognising the critical role of leadership in shaping team culture, driving performance, and ensuring long-term success, CWI adopted a data-informed, multi-dimensional framework to guide the selection.”
The statement added: “This marks a significant evolution in how leadership appointments are made, aimed at strengthening accountability, transparency, and alignment with modern cricketing standards.”
The selection process began with a shortlist of candidates based on Test experience, leadership potential, and captaincy credentials. Those considered included John Campbell, Tevin Imlach, Joshua Da Silva, Justin Greaves, Chase, and Warrican.
Shai Hope, the current white-ball captain, declined to be considered, choosing to focus on his responsibilities in ODIs and T20Is.
Candidates underwent a comprehensive evaluation, including psychometric testing, structured interviews, and scoring across six key areas: leadership, respect within the team, cricketing knowledge, personal conduct, media and communication skills, and psychometric results.
The interview panel consisted of Head Coach Daren Sammy, Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe, and Chairman of the Cricket Strategy and Officiating Committee, Enoch Lewis.
CWI President Dr Kishore Shallow stressed that the selection process was in-depth and objective.
“This selection process is one of the most comprehensive and forward-thinking we have undertaken. 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.”
Head Coach Daren Sammy added that he “fully endorse this appointment. Our new captain has earned the respect of his peers, understands the responsibility that comes with the role, and 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.”
