Shai Hope has been appointed the new captain of the West Indies T20 International team, Cricket West Indies (CWI) confirmed on March 31, 2025. The decision marks a significant shift in the team’s leadership, with Hope stepping into the role previously held by Rovman Powell. This announcement coincides with Kraigg Brathwaite’s resignation as Test captain, suggesting a broader overhaul of leadership across West Indies cricket formats.


Hope, a seasoned batsman known for his composure and consistency, brings a wealth of experience to the T20I captaincy. Since his T20I debut in 2017, he has played 36 matches, showcasing his adaptability in the shorter format while establishing himself as a mainstay in the ODI and Test sides. His appointment follows a strong individual performance in recent months, including a match-winning 82* against Pakistan in a T20I in January 2025, which bolstered his credentials as a leader.


The change comes after a mixed run for the West Indies T20I team under Powell, who led the side to the T20 World Cup semi-finals in 2024 but struggled with consistency in bilateral series. CWI has not elaborated on the reasons behind the switch, though posts on X suggest fan support for Hope, with many praising his tactical acumen and cool-headedness under pressure. His first assignment as captain will likely be the upcoming T20I series against Sri Lanka in May 2025, a chance to imprint his vision on the team.


This development also fuels speculation about Hope’s potential to take on the Test captaincy following Brathwaite’s exit. While no confirmation has been made, his dual-format leadership experience—he captained the ODI side briefly in 2023—positions him as a strong contender. For now, Hope’s immediate focus will be on galvanizing the T20I squad, blending youth like Akeal Hosein with veterans such as Jason Holder to push for dominance in the format.


As West Indies cricket enters this new chapter, Hope’s appointment is seen as a move toward stability and innovation. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how his leadership style will shape the team’s fortunes in the fast-paced world of T20 cricket.