Kraigg Brathwaite replaces Jason Holder as West Indies Test captain

The 28-year-old's permanent tenure at the helm will begin against Sri Lanka later this month

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West Indies have confirmed opening batsman Kraigg Brathwaite as their new Test captain.

The 28-year-old replaces Jason Holder, who had held the position since 2015. In 37 games in charge he won just 11 and lost 21.

Brathwaite, who has led Windies seven times in the longest format including during the recent series win over Bangladesh, has played 66 Tests for his country and has scored 3,876 runs.

His permanent tenure in charge begins with the first Test against Sri Lanka in Antigua on March 21-25. The second game takes place at the same venue between March 29 and April 2.

"It is a huge honour to be given the captaincy of the West Indies Test team," said Brathwaite. "I feel extremely proud and humbled that the board and selectors have given me the opportunity and responsibility to lead the team. 

"The recent Test Series win in Bangladesh was a fantastic achievement and I’m really looking forward to the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka and I’m excited about what I believe this team can achieve in the future."

Director of cricket Jimmy Adams added: "On behalf of CWI, I would like to thank Jason for all he has given to the game in the region while serving as captain of our Test team. 

"Throughout his five-and-a-half-year tenure, he has led with dignity while always upholding the highest values of the sport. 

"As the world’s leading Test all-rounder, we all believe that Jason still has a tremendous role to play in West Indies Test cricket for many years to come."

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