Brathwaite steps down as West Indies Test captain; Hope to lead in T20Is

West Indies will kickstart the next World Test Championship cycle under a new captain after Cricket West Indies (CWI) announced Kraigg Brathwaite's decision to step down from leadership duties. CWI revealed that Brathwaite had already indicated his intention to step down after the culmination of West Indies's Pakistan tour this year.

The opener has now stepped down with three months left for his side's next assignment, at home against Australia. The series will also see Brathwaite play his 100th Test. Under his tenure, West Indies beat England at home in 2022, secured a thrilling win on Australian soil for the first time in 27 years and most recently drew level in a series in Pakistan. In all, Brathwaite led West Indies in 39 Tests, winning ten games.

CWI confirmed that the new Test captain will be named in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, there has been a change in leadership in the white-ball set up as well after ODI skipper Shai Hope was also handed the reins of the T20I side. The board revealed that the decision was taken following advice from Head Coach Daren Sammy.

"Kraigg Brathwaite has been an outstanding leader for our Test team, guiding the squad with discipline, resilience, and a deep understanding of the game," Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe said. "His contributions have been invaluable, and under his leadership, we have witnessed historic moments that will be remembered for years to come. We thank Kraigg for his service as captain and look forward to his continued impact as a senior player."

Sammy heaped praise on new white-ball skipper Hope following his appointment. "Shai Hope's appointment signals a progressive shift for West Indies cricket, given his success with the 50 over team in the last 18 months," Sammy said. "As the team continues its evolution, Hope blends instinctive decision-making with analytical precision, using in-depth match data and player performance insights to shape strategy. Shai is a strong believer in team performances and his meticulous preparation, coupled with his calm and composed demeanor under pressure, makes him an ideal leader at this stage."