Cricket West Indies (CWI) have appointed Nicholas Pooran as the new skipper of the ODI and T20I formats after the retirement of Kieron Pollard. The Trinidadian cricketer recently bid farewell from international cricket.
Notably, Pooran was the vice-captain in white-ball cricket for West Indies last year, with Pollard leading the team. So far, Pooran has led West Indies in ten internationals – eight T20Is and two ODIs, winning four and losing six.
Pooran’s appointment as the limited-overs skipper has now been confirmed by the CWI in a statement. Batter Shai Hope has also been appointed as the new vice-captain of the ODI team.
“We believe Nicholas is ready for the challenge of leading our white-ball teams given his experience, performances, and the respect he has within the playing group. The Selection Panel believes that Nicholas has matured as a player and were impressed with his leadership of both teams when Kieron Pollard had been absent. The experience he has gathered playing in various franchise leagues around the world was also a factor in the decision to recommend him for the T20 captaincy,” said CWI’s Director of Cricket Jimmy Adams in an official release.
Speaking on being appointed as the captain of West Indies, Pooran expressed his delight, stating he is looking forward to take his team to greater heights. The 26-year-old mentioned that becoming captain is the biggest highlight of his career.
“I am truly honored to be appointed captain of the West Indies team. I am following the footsteps of several giants of the game who have created an amazing legacy for West Indies cricket. This is indeed a prestigious role, a pivotal position in the West Indian society, as cricket is the force that brings us all West Indians together. To be named captain is indeed the highlight of my career so far, and I want to drive the team forward to accomplish great things on the field for our fans and loyal supporters,” said Pooran.
