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West Indies head coach Daren Sammy has revealed that former captain Jason Holder has retired from ODI cricket while confirming that the experienced all-rounder remains interested in representing the Caribbean side in Test cricket. Sammy made the comments during an appearance on the Wisden Cricket Podcast, where he discussed Holder's international future.
Notably, Jason Holder himself has not publicly announced his retirement from ODI cricket. Daren Sammy's remarks therefore appear to be the first confirmation of the all-rounder's decision, making the revelation a surprising development for West Indies fans.
Key Points
- Daren Sammy said Jason Holder has retired from ODI cricket.
- Sammy confirmed Holder remains interested in playing Test cricket.
- Holder has not publicly announced his ODI retirement himself.
- Test selection will depend on his availability and the team's plans.
What Daren Sammy said about Jason Holder's ODI retirement
During the podcast, Daren Sammy was asked whether Jason Holder remained in West Indies' plans across formats. While responding, the head coach made a significant revelation regarding Holder's ODI future.
"Yes, Jason is still in the mix for Test. I know he's retired from ODI cricket. Test cricket for sure. He has spoken about his interest, but obviously, you know, he's a franchise player as well... it's us talking about availability, where he fits. But yeah, he's made clear that he's still interested in Test cricket. So once that fits with his schedule and obviously the plans that we have, I'm pretty sure that will happen," Sammy said.
The West Indies head coach's comments indicate that Jason Holder's ODI career has come to an end, while leaving the door open for a return in the longest format whenever his franchise commitments and West Indies' schedule align.
Jason Holder still wants to play Test cricket, says Daren Sammy
While Sammy confirmed Holder's ODI retirement, he made it equally clear that the 34-year-old has not stepped away from Test cricket.
According to the West Indies coach, Holder has expressed a desire to continue playing Tests, although his availability will depend on balancing international commitments with a busy franchise calendar.
Daren Sammy also pointed out that Justin Greaves has performed the all-rounder's role effectively in Jason Holder's absence, contributing with both bat and ball while also making an impact in the field. That has provided West Indies with valuable depth, even as Holder remains part of the Test conversation.
Rather than suggesting Holder has been phased out, Daren Sammy indicated that his future involvement will depend on selection plans and scheduling.
"But, you know, in the meantime, you know, Justin has really made that all-rounder role very useful for us with bat and ball and catching as well. So yeah, that is on the cards there," Sammy added.
Why Jason Holder's ODI retirement confirmation came as a surprise
The manner in which Holder's ODI retirement emerged makes the story particularly unusual. Unlike many international cricketers who announce their retirement through social media, press conferences or official board statements, Jason Holder has not publicly confirmed that he has retired from the 50-over format.
Instead, the news surfaced through comments made by Daren Sammy during a podcast interview. While the West Indies head coach is well placed to speak on squad planning, fans may still await an official statement from Holder himself before considering the chapter formally closed.
That distinction is important, as Sammy's remarks currently remain the only public confirmation of Holder's ODI retirement.
Jason Holder's ODI career by the numbers
If Sammy's comments indeed mark the end of Holder's ODI journey, the all-rounder leaves behind one of the finest careers by a modern West Indies cricketer.
Holder played 138 ODIs between 2013 and 2023, scoring 2,237 runs at an average of 24.85, with a highest score of 99 not out. Although he never reached three figures in the format, he registered 11 half-centuries and often rescued West Indies from difficult situations in the lower middle order.
With the ball, Holder claimed 159 wickets at an average of 36.96, including best figures of 5/27 and two five-wicket hauls. He also established himself as one of the safest fielders in the side, taking 65 catches during his ODI career.
Holder captained West Indies in 86 ODIs, leading the side through a transitional period while simultaneously contributing as one of the team's premier all-rounders.
Among his notable ODI achievements, Holder became one of the few players in history to complete the double of 1,000 runs and 100 wickets, while also joining an exclusive group to record 1,000 runs, 50 wickets and 50 catches in the format.
What Jason Holder's retirement means for West Indies' ODI plans
Jason Holder's departure from ODI cricket would mark the end of an era for West Indies, who have relied on his all-round abilities for more than a decade.
However, Sammy's comments also hinted at the direction the team is taking. By highlighting Justin Greaves' performances, the head coach suggested that West Indies are already preparing the next generation of pace-bowling all-rounders capable of filling Holder's role.
Replacing a player with Holder's experience will not be straightforward. Beyond his batting and bowling contributions, he brought leadership, tactical awareness and calmness under pressure.
Nevertheless, the emergence of younger all-rounders provides West Indies with an opportunity to gradually transition into a new ODI cycle while continuing to utilise Holder's experience in Test cricket if he remains available.
While Daren Sammy's remarks appear to have settled Jason Holder's ODI future, an official announcement from the former West Indies captain is still awaited.
