Roston Chase Named West Indies Test Captain
1. Introduction: A Fresh Chapter in Caribbean Cricket
West Indies cricket, long known for its flamboyant style and history of legends, turns a new page with Roston Chase being appointed as the Test captain. After a two-year hiatus from red-ball cricket, Chase returns not only to revive his own career but also to steer a team in transition against one of the toughest opponents — Australia. With the series beginning on June 25, 2025, the stakes are high, but so is the belief in Chase’s calm and composed leadership.
2. The Man of the Moment: Who is Roston Chase?
Roston Chase, a 33-year-old Barbadian all-rounder, is known for his elegant off-spin and steady middle-order batting. With five centuries and three five-wicket hauls in Tests, Chase has been one of West Indies’ more versatile red-ball players in recent years. Though he hasn’t captained the senior West Indies or even the Barbados national team, his experience leading various regional sides — including eight teams at different levels — gives him a foundational sense of leadership.
3. From Hiatus to Helm: The Comeback Story
Chase last played a Test match in 2023 and has been absent from the format since then. However, his return was fast-tracked after head coach Darren Sammy and Cricket West Indies’ Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe held discussions with him. “I’ve always wanted to return to Test cricket,” Chase admitted during an interview organized by FanCode, highlighting his passion for the traditional format.
4. Taking Over from Brathwaite: Big Shoes to Fill
Kraigg Brathwaite, a stoic opener and a veteran campaigner, had been West Indies’ Test captain since 2021. Known for his gritty batting and calm demeanor, Brathwaite led the team through several tough tours and home series. Chase now inherits a side in flux, with young talent coming through and some veterans nearing the twilight of their careers. His challenge will be to blend the raw potential with a resilient mindset.
5. Chase’s Leadership Mantra: Calmness and Composure
“I think I’m a good leader. Obviously, I’m not perfect. I’m still learning,” Chase confessed, reflecting humility and self-awareness. He emphasized that his leadership style will be based on calmness and simplicity — characteristics often found lacking in previous West Indies regimes, which sometimes appeared chaotic or overly aggressive. His calm leadership could be just what a young and impressionable squad needs.
6. The Sammy Influence: A Mentor Behind the Scenes
One of the key factors behind Chase’s appointment is Darren Sammy, the former T20 World Cup-winning captain who now serves as head coach. Sammy’s belief in empowering players and his clear vision for West Indies cricket appear to have played a crucial role in Chase’s comeback. Sammy’s mentoring presence could help Chase transition smoothly into this new leadership phase.
7. The Australian Challenge: Trial by Fire
There’s no gentle start to Chase’s captaincy journey. Facing Australia in a three-match Test series is a baptism by fire. The Aussies, known for their aggressive and ruthless brand of cricket, will test every aspect of Chase’s tactical acumen and team cohesion. However, playing at home gives West Indies some advantage — especially if Chase can inspire his troops to rise to the occasion.
8. Reviving West Indies’ Test Fortunes
West Indies have not been consistent in Tests over the past decade. Their last notable series win against a top side was back in 2019 against England. The team has struggled with batting collapses, inconsistent bowling spells, and off-field distractions. Chase now has the responsibility of bringing structure and accountability, while also infusing belief into his squad. The upcoming series could be the litmus test.
9. Focus on Youth and Balance
Chase’s leadership will also involve nurturing the next generation. With emerging names like Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Joshua Da Silva, and Jayden Seales forming the new core, his guidance will be critical. His own experience as a middle-order batter and part-time bowler also brings balance, allowing for strategic flexibility — whether opting for five bowlers or strengthening the batting.
10. Leadership Without Experience? A Double-Edged Sword
While Chase has led several age-group and domestic sides, the lack of experience at the senior international level may concern some critics. However, it also means he brings a fresh, unburdened perspective. Much like how Jason Holder or Darren Sammy grew into their leadership roles, Chase has the opportunity to let performance and temperament speak louder than reputation.
11. Mental Toughness: A Silent Asset
Having spent two years away from the international scene, Chase has had time to reflect, recover, and rebuild mentally. That period might have helped him mature as a leader, understanding the mental dynamics of elite cricket better than ever. His resolve to return, and now lead, speaks of a man mentally prepared for the grind.
12. What Success Will Look Like
For Chase, success might not just mean winning all three Tests, but building a culture where players feel responsible and inspired. If the West Indies can compete strongly against Australia, take games deep, and show unity and resilience, it will reflect the success of Chase’s leadership values.
13. Conclusion: A Defining Moment for West Indies Cricket
Roston Chase’s appointment marks more than just a captaincy change — it signals a philosophical shift for West Indies cricket. In a world dominated by white-ball glitz, his calm red-ball revival could be a pivotal chapter. With support from Darren Sammy and a squad eager to prove itself, Chase has a golden chance to redefine West Indies’ place in Test cricket — one calm, composed decision at a time.
