Rovman Powell. | (Image Credits: ICC X)
Ex-West Indies skipper Dwayne Bravo has slammed the board for replacing Rovman Powell as the T20I skipper, claiming that injustice towards well-deserving players continues. The retired all-rounder took to Instagram and stated it as one of the worst-ever decisions to be taken by the board.
Powell, who took charge of the West Indies’ T20 side in 2022, has ushered them to 19 wins in 37 games and also led them in the World Cup last year. However, Cricket West Indies (CWI), on Monday announced that Shai Hope will lead the side in the shortest format moving forward.
CWI Chief Miles Bascombe explained the decision by saying, as quoted by ESPN Cricinfo:
“I have expressed to him [Powell] that he ought to feel dignified by his contributions to West Indies cricket, as he has played a crucial role in elevating our T20 team to new heights. His leadership has left a strong foundation, and we are grateful for his efforts.”
Head coach Darren Sammy said Hope has done an outstanding job with the one-day side and expects the right-hander to do as well in T20Is:
“As the team continues its evolution, Hope blends instinctive decision-making with analytical precision, using in-depth match data and player-performance insights to shape strategy. Shai is a strong believer in team performances, and his meticulous preparation, coupled with his calm and composed demeanour under pressure, makes him an ideal leader at this stage
Nevertheless, Bravo called out the board for not treating someone well despite him lifting the West Indies in T20I rankings from 9th to 3rd. The Trinidadian wrote:
“@windiescricket once again you guys prove to the people of the Caribbean and the cricket world 🌎 that the injustices towards players continues! As a former player and a fan of WI cricket 🏏 this is easily one of the worst decisions ever @ravipowell52 taking over captaincy when our T20 team was in 9th spot and was able to move up to 3rd sport in the rankings and this is how you guys repay him 🫣🫣🤔🤔 the bad treatment towards players when would it Stop! 🛑 this is so sad on all levels..make it make sense! SMH.”
