BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) — Cricket West Indies (CWI) has named veteran Barbadian all-rounder Roston Chase as its new West Indies Test captain, while his countryman Jomel Warrican will serve as vice-captain.

The eagerly anticipated announcement was made on Friday, following a meeting at Kensington Oval where the 33-year-old Chase was unanimously approved by the CWI’s Board of Directors.

Chase beat out five other candidates for the job: John Campbell, Tevin Imlach, Joshua Da Silva, Justin Greaves, and Warrican, which post was left vacant following former Captain Kraigg Brathwaite’s surprising resignation earlier this year.

The middle order batsman and off-spinner has played 49 Test matches since making his debut against India in 2016, scoring 2265 runs at an average of 26.33, inclusive of five centuries and 11 half centuries.

Chase has also taken 85 wickets at an economy rate of 3.45.

His first series as captain will be a daunting one, with the West Indies set to take on world number one Australia in a three-match Test series beginning June 25 at Kensington Oval.

Warrican, a 32-year-old left-arm spinner, has played 19 Test matches and taken 73 wickets at an economy rate at 3.05.

He starred with both bat and ball on the tour of Pakistan in January, helping the visitors register their first Test win on Pakistan soil in over 30 years, on their way to tying the series 1-1.

Interestingly, CWI also revealed that Shai Hope, the One-Day International and Twenty20 International captain, respectfully declined consideration to focus on his existing leadership roles.

The final recommendation was based on a weighted scoring system across six key areas: leadership, respect within the team, cricket knowledge, personal conduct, media and communication skills, and the results of the psychometric evaluation.

The top-ranked candidates were recommended as captain and vice-captain and subsequently approved by the CWI board.

Following the completion of a robust and structured process, CWI President Kishore Shallow praised its integrity and innovation.

“This selection process is one of the most comprehensive and forward-thinking we have undertaken,” he said.

“I am deeply impressed by the professionalism, objectivity, and strategic thinking that shaped the final decision. It sets a new benchmark for leadership appointments in West Indies cricket.”

West Indies Head Coach Daren Sammy said he is looking forward to working with the new captain.

“I fully endorse this appointment,” Sammy said. “Our new captain has earned the respect of his peers, understands the responsibility that comes with the role, and has shown the leadership qualities we need to take this team forward.

“I urge fans across the region to rally behind him — we’re building something special.”