West Indies head coach Daren Sammy has made it clear that the careers of Kraigg Brathwaite, Kemar Roach, and Jason Holder are far from finished.
Speaking at a Cricket West Indies (CWI) press conference in St John’s on Thursday, Sammy reassured fans that the trio—though left out of the upcoming two-Test squad against India—remain firmly in contention for future selection.
“I’ve said it time and time again, I’m in no position to call time on anybody’s career,” Sammy declared. “If Kemar is still playing, he will be up for selection. The same goes for Kraigg and Jason. Missing out now doesn’t mean that’s the end.”
Brathwaite’s break in the chain
Brathwaite, 32, has been a cornerstone of West Indies Test cricket, amassing 5,950 runs in 100 matches at an average of 32.51. He also holds the record for most consecutive Tests played by a West Indian. However, after being dropped during the third Test against Australia in July, the former captain has found himself sidelined.
“I mean, we know what Kraigg has done for us throughout his career,” Sammy said. “But over the last two years he has lost some form, and we’re also trying to give other guys a chance in a role that hasn’t produced the numbers we’ve needed.”
The coach was quick to stress, though, that Brathwaite’s story is not over. “He misses out, but that doesn’t mean that that’s it for Kraigg. I want to make that clear.”
Roach’s legacy, pace future in good hands
Roach, now 37, is one of the region’s most decorated fast bowlers with 284 wickets in 85 Tests. His last appearance came earlier this year against Pakistan. While Sammy praised his contributions, he pointed to the current strength of the West Indies pace battery—led by Alzarri Joseph, Jayden Seales, and Shamar Joseph—as reason for Roach’s omission.
“Our bowling department, especially the fast-bowling group, is going really well,” Sammy noted. “I do understand and value what Kemar has done, but I am never in a position to say when a man stops playing cricket.”
Holder’s role covered—for now
Holder, 33, boasts 3,073 runs and 162 wickets in 69 Tests but last represented the West Indies in 2024 against South Africa. Sammy explained that his role is currently being filled by fellow Barbadian Justin Greaves, who has returned to full fitness after injury.
“I’ve had conversations with Jason about where things stand,” Sammy revealed. “Right now, Justin Greaves is fit and offering balance in the side. But that doesn’t mean Jason’s not in the picture.”
A balancing act
With a new generation of players making strides, Sammy emphasized that the omission of experienced names is part of a broader effort to build depth without closing doors.
“These guys have done a lot for West Indies cricket, and their experience is always respected,” he said. “Selection is about form, fitness, and the needs of the team—but the door is not closed.”
