Kraigg Brathwaite has stepped down from his role as captain of the West Indies Test team after a four-year tenure. Simultaneously, Shai Hope, the current ODI captain, has been appointed to lead the T20 team, according to official sources.

Brathwaite, 32, who is nearing his 100th Test match, led the team to a significant victory in Brisbane last year, marking their first Test win in Australia in 27 years.

Earlier this season, under his leadership, the West Indies achieved their first Test victory in Pakistan in almost 35 years.

Known for his resilience and focus as an opening batsman, Brathwaite has amassed 5,935 Test runs, including 12 centuries and 31 half-centuries, with an average of just over 33.

He is also celebrated for his remarkable patience at the crease, notably his nearly 16-hour batting effort over two innings, which secured a draw against England in Barbados in 2022.

Miles Bascombe, the West Indies director of cricket, praised Brathwaite’s leadership, stating, “Kraigg Brathwaite has been an outstanding leader for our Test team, guiding the squad with discipline, resilience, and a deep understanding of the game. His contributions have been invaluable, and under his leadership, we have witnessed historic moments that will be remembered for years to come.”

Meanwhile, Shai Hope will succeed Rovman Powell, who has been in charge of the T20 team since 2023.

Hope, 31, brings considerable experience to the role, having played 133 ODIs and 39 T20 internationals, accumulating over 6,000 runs across both formats.

Notably, he has scored 17 centuries in ODI cricket.

Head coach Darren Sammy commented on Hope’s appointment, saying, “Shai Hope’s appointment signals a progressive shift for West Indies cricket.”