Kraigg Brathwaite Resigns as West Indies Test Captain

Kraigg Brathwaite’s tenure as West Indies Test captain has come to a close, marking the end of an era defined by resilience, resurgence, and notable victories against formidable opponents. Having first indicated his intention to resign earlier this year, before the West Indies concluded their successful tour of Pakistan, Brathwaite officially stepped down on April 1, 2025. His captaincy, which commenced in March 2021, saw the West Indies navigate a challenging period in their cricketing history, emerging with renewed vigour and a string of impressive performances that rekindled hope among fans and reaffirmed their place on the international stage. Brathwaite leaves behind a legacy of grit and determination, having inspired his team to achieve remarkable feats against the odds.

Brathwaite’s leadership was instrumental in orchestrating several historic wins, etching his name into the annals of West Indies cricket. A defining moment of his captaincy was the thrilling eight-run victory against Australia in Brisbane in 2024, ending a 27-year drought for the West Indies on Australian soil. This triumph resonated deeply within the cricketing world, signifying the team’s re-emergence as a competitive force. The victory was built on a foundation of disciplined bowling, tenacious batting, and astute field placements, all reflecting Brathwaite’s tactical acumen and his ability to inspire his team to perform at their peak. The win not only boosted the team’s morale but also served as a potent reminder of the West Indies’ historical prowess in Test cricket.

Further solidifying his captaincy credentials, Brathwaite led the West Indies to a historic series-leveling victory against Pakistan in Pakistan earlier in 2025. This achievement, a feat unaccomplished in 34 years, underscored the team’s growing confidence and ability to compete on foreign soil. The series win was a testament to the team’s adaptability, their ability to counter challenging conditions, and their unwavering belief in their own capabilities. Brathwaite’s calm demeanor and strategic thinking played a crucial role in navigating the complexities of playing in Pakistan, inspiring his team to overcome the formidable challenge and secure a memorable result.

Beyond these landmark victories, Brathwaite’s tenure also witnessed other significant triumphs. The victory against England at home in 2022 provided further evidence of the team’s resurgence under his leadership, demonstrating their ability to compete against a top-tier cricketing nation. This win served as a powerful symbol of the team’s progress and their growing capacity to challenge established cricketing powers. Furthermore, the 2-0 series win against Bangladesh in 2021, achieved amidst the challenging backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, showcased the team’s resilience and their ability to adapt to extraordinary circumstances. This victory was particularly significant considering the logistical and mental challenges posed by the pandemic, further highlighting Brathwaite’s leadership qualities in navigating unprecedented times.

As the West Indies Test team transitions to a new era under a new captain, Brathwaite’s contributions will be remembered fondly. His leadership not only yielded tangible results in the form of historic victories but also instilled a sense of renewed belief and purpose within the team. His calm demeanour under pressure, his tactical acumen, and his ability to inspire his teammates were defining characteristics of his captaincy. He leaves behind a team that is demonstrably more competitive and confident, poised to continue its upward trajectory in the world of Test cricket. The search for his successor will undoubtedly be a significant undertaking, as Cricket West Indies seeks a leader capable of building on the foundations laid by Brathwaite and further advancing the team’s progress.

Concurrently, the West Indies white-ball team is also embarking on a new chapter with Shai Hope assuming the T20I captaincy, in addition to his existing role as ODI captain. This appointment signifies a shift in leadership as Rovman Powell, who led the T20 team with distinction since May 2023, steps aside. Hope’s dual captaincy roles across both limited-overs formats signal a desire for continuity and a unified approach in the West Indies’ white-ball strategy. This move places significant responsibility on Hope’s shoulders as he aims to replicate the team’s recent Test success in the shorter formats of the game. The coming months will be crucial for Hope and the West Indies white-ball team as they strive to build momentum and establish themselves as a consistent force in T20I and ODI cricket.