Kolkata: Left-handed batter Nicholas Pooran has been chosen the next West Indies captain in one-day internationals (ODIs) and T20 Internationals (T20Is), succeeding Kieron Pollard, who announced his retirement from international cricket lately.
“Nicholas Pooran will take over the captaincy for the West Indies Men’s ODI and T20I teams following the international retirement of Kieron Pollard,” Cricket West Indies said in a statement.
When all-rounder Pollard led the squad in both limited overs forms, Pooran served as vice-captain. “Pooran will take over the captaincy for the West Indies ODI and T20I teams after being Pollard’s deputy over the last year. The appointment will include the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2022 and the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in October 2023,” the CWI statement said.
Wicketkeeper-batter Shai Hope has been appointed the new vice-captain in ODIs.
“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,” he further said.
.@nicholas_47 is looking forward to the new challenge as West Indies' new White-ball captain. #MenInMaroon pic.twitter.com/5chzTzOEZu
— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) May 3, 2022
“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,” Nicholas Pooran said.
“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,” he said.
“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,” he added.
Pooran’s first task as skipper will be to lead the team in a three-match ODI series against the Netherlands, which begins on May 31.
