West Indies in shock! Rovman Powell sacked as T20I skipper and Kraigg Brathwaite quits Test captaincy

West Indies National Cricket Team have been hit by a massive disaster. T20I skipper Rovman Powell has been sacked while Test skipper Kraigg Brathwaite has decided to step down from his role after four years in charge.

ODI captain Shai Hope will be leading the West Indies National Cricket Team in the T20Is, taking over from Rovman Powell. The latter took charge of the team in May 2023, and under him, the team did some incredible things and beat some big teams.

His leadership has left a strong foundation, and we are grateful for his efforts. - CWI Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe on Rovman Powell

Under Rovman Powell, the West Indies beat India, England, and South Africa. They also reached the Super 8 stage of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. During his tenure, the team also went on to become the fifth-ranked team in the ICC Rankings in the T20I format.

While talking about the leadership stint of Rovman Powell, CWI Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe said that the batter's leadership has left a strong foundation, and they are grateful for his efforts. He said:

"I have expressed to him [Powell] that he ought to feel dignified by his contributions to West Indies cricket, as he has played a crucial role in elevating our T20 team to new heights," Bascombe said. "His leadership has left a strong foundation, and we are grateful for his efforts."

Kraigg Brathwaite decides to step down ahead of the new cycle of the ICC World Test Championship

On the other hand, Kraigg Brathwaite decided to step down ahead of the new cycle of the ICC World Test Championship. The right-hander informed about his decision to the CWI after the Pakistan tour as he wants a smooth transition to happen in the format.

Kraigg Brathwaite had a great time as the captain of the Test team. Under him, West Indies registered the first Test victory in Australia in 27 years as they beat the opposition by 8 runs in Brisbane in 2024. They also recently drew the series in Pakistan.

Brathwaite wanted to ensure the team had a period of transition before his departure - Cricket West Indies

The Cricket West Indies also released an official statement about Kraigg Brathwaite stepping down as the captain. They also mentioned that they will be naming the new skipper soon. The statement read:

"Kraigg Brathwaite has officially stepped down as Test captain, having first indicated his intention to do so to CWI leadership earlier this year ahead of the completion of the West Indies' successful tour of Pakistan," the board said in a statement. "Understanding the importance of continuity, Brathwaite wanted to ensure the team had a period of transition before his departure.

"As a result, he has submitted his resignation ahead of the home series against Australia, giving the new leadership time to establish itself. This series will be particularly special, allowing Brathwaite, who is two matches shy of 100 Test matches, to double down on his batting without added responsibility."

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