Windies Head Coach Says Door Not Closed on Returns For Brathwaite, Roach or Holder

ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC)– West Indies head coach Daren Sammy has given the assurance that Cricket West Indies (CWI) has not called time on the careers of out of favour opener Kraigg Brathwaite, veteran pacer Kemar Roach and all-rounder Jason Holder.

In fact, speaking during a CWI press conference on Thursday, Sammy said there was still a possibility that the trio could suit up for the regional team in the near future.

His comments came after none of the three Barbadians was included in a 15-member squad to face India next month in two Tests.

The 32-year-old Brathwaite, a former Test captain who has played 100 Tests for the West Indies and scored 5950 runs at an average of 32.51, was dropped for the third Test against Australia back in July, while Roach, 37, has taken 284 wickets in 85 Test matches and last featured for the West Indies in January against Pakistan.

Meanwhile, Holder an experienced all-rounder has claimed 162 wickets and scored 3073 runs at an average of 29.83 in 69 Test matches. His last Test match was against South Africa in 2024.

When asked about the position regarding the trio, Sammy made it clear that they could all feature for West Indies at some point.

“For instance, you would see somebody like a Kraigg Brathwaite who is not into the Test team.

“I mean we know what Kraigg has done for us throughout his career, he played the most consecutive Test matches for the West Indies. However, over the last two years he has lost some form and we’re also trying to give some other guys an opportunity to fill a role that’s not been given the numbers over the last few series,” Sammy said.

“He misses out but that doesn’t mean that that’s it for Kraigg, I want to make that clear…”

With regards to Roach, Sammy said the current West Indies pace attack of Alzarri Joseph, Jayden Seales and Shamar Joseph was doing an excellent job.

“…I’ve said it time and time again, I’m in no position to call time on anybody’s career. If Kemar is still playing he will be up for selection, but however, if you notice our bowling department, especially the fast-bowling department, that is going really well.

“I do understand and value the contribution that Kemar has done, but I am never in a position to say when a man stops playing cricket,” Sammy maintained.

He further explained that Holder’s role in the team was currently being filled by compatriot Justin Greaves, who has recovered from injury and is fully fit.

Sammy said he had discussions with Holder regarding the situation and the reasons behind his non-selection.