Test opener Kraigg Brathwaite has said that it is an absolute privilege for him to be given the opportunity to lead the West Indies in Test cricket.
Kraigg Brathwaite was recently appointed the captain of the West Indian Test team as veteran all-rounder Jason Holder, who led the Caribbean islands in 37 Tests since taking over in 2015.
The newly-appointed captain proceeded to heap high praise on Jason Holder, stating that the all-rounder did a superb job during his stint as captain.
“I just want to thank god for giving me this opportunity, and also want to say I thought Jason Holder did a superb job leading the Test team for the last five years, so obviously taking over from him is a privilege. I was very happy [to be made captain], obviously very proud, and I look forward to the challenge.” Kraigg Brathwaite was quoted as saying by CricBuzz.
Brathwaite’s appointment comes after he led an inexperienced West Indian team to a brilliant 2-0 victory in Bangladesh. The Test opener has been appointed as the captain for the series in Bangladesh after several senior players including Jason Holder pulled out of the tour due to Covid.
”Well, I really enjoyed that tour. For me, I just made sure I let the guys know, to believe in themselves and believe in their ability. I’ve played youth cricket with most of those guys, and if not, first-class cricket for a number of years, so I know the ability they have. Just assured them that they can do it,” said Brathwaite.
“Just trust in your plans and believe in them, and prepare well. The word attitude is always key, and I thought we did that well, and it’s important for us as a team to continue that same attitude,” he added.
Kraig Brathwaite will kickstart his stint as full-time captain with a two-match Test series against Sri Lanka on home soil.
But the newly-appointed captain is well aware of his prime job in the team. Brathwaite, who has gone 17 Tests without scoring a hundred, is working on his balance against fast bowlers.
”The more you’re balanced, the better your shots, and that was something important for me. I also went about planning even better, in terms of how I want to go about my innings, and topping up on power. But mainly getting my balance in order, and backing yourself. You always have plans, and it’s to really trust them, that was the key for me. Planning was very very important.” said Kraigg Brathwaite.
Also Read: CWI Selector Asserts Jason Holder Is An Integral Part Of The Team Despite Test Captaincy Removal
