Shai Hope replaced Powell as the new T20I skipper of the West Indies team.
Wicketkeeper-batter Shai Hope was appointed as the new T20I skipper on a day where Test captain Kraigg Brathwaite also vacated his position.
In a statement, CWI Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe said that Hope was marked to take over T20I captaincy after the “advice of head coach Daren Sammy.”
“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,” Bascombe said.
“His leadership has left a strong foundation, and we are grateful for his efforts.”
On the other hand, Sammy said Hope’s appointment “signals a progressive shift for West Indies cricket, given his success with the 50-over team in the last 18 months”.
“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,” Sammy said.
However, Bravo was critical of the decision to replace Powell. He threw his weight behind Powell in a social media post.
Taking to Instagram, Bravo wrote: “@windiescricket once again you guys prove to the people of the Caribbean and the cricket world that the injustices towards players continues!”
He added, “As a former player and a fan of WI cricket, this is easily one of the worst decisions ever. [Powell] 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!”
Under Powell’s leadership, West Indies enjoyed a resurgence in T20Is, securing home series victories against India, England, and South Africa. He also guided the team to the Super 8 stage at the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 and played a key role in the team’s rise from 9th to 5th in the ICC T20I rankings.