West Indies Chief Selector, Roger Harper has attributed the clashing domestic season in the Caribbean with International series as well as the limited A-team tours as some of the reasons that lead to inadequate opportunities to try out new captains.
Harper, at the time was speaking to the media during a press conference from New Zealand.
He stated, “One of the challenges we have is that on tours these days, I mean the modern tour doesn’t have a lot of first-class games so you know so that guys other than the leader of the team or the touring party will have opportunities to showcase their ability as captains.”
He added, “And on a number of occasions, tours clash with our domestic seasons back in the West Indies so in some cases that prevents guys from getting that real opportunity to get some exposure as far as captaincy is concerned.”
Harper’s comments came on the back of Nicholas Pooran’s appointment as T20 vice-captain and Roston Chase’s promotion to Jason Holder’s deputy in Tests.
Both vice-captains do not lead their respective territorial franchises in domestic competitions. Kieron Pollard, captain of the limited overs side has served as skipper for Trinbago Knight Riders, leading them to victory in the Caribbean Premier League and has led Mumbai Indians on occasions this season in the Indian Premier League. Holder has captained Barbados Pride and Barbados Tridents in the past and has tasted success with championship glory for Tridents in the CPL.
As such, Harper expressed optimism at giving both Pooran and Chase the chance to lead their territorial teams in domestic competitions whenever the opportunity arises.
