KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) – Rovman Powell has described his 22 months as West Indies Twenty20 (T20) captain as an “honour” and also expressed pride in his accomplishments during that period.
Jamaican Powell, who led the T20 team from 2023, was replaced as captain by Barbadian Shai Hope in an announcement made by Cricket West Indies (CWI) on Monday.
The 31-year-old middle order batsman broke his silence in an Instagram post on Wednesday, saying he was especially proud of leading the West Indies T20 team from ninth to third in the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) rankings.
“West Indies cricket is of great importance to not just myself but the people of the Caribbean. Leading West Indies was an honour and something I will forever be proud of,” Powell said.
“I would like to thank CWI for the opportunity to lead over the last two years.
“To the players, a special thank you for the support from the very first day to the last day as your captain. During the duration of my captaincy, we have made incredible strides, moving from ninth to third in the world, something we can be tremendously proud of.
“To the maroon fans and all lovers of West Indies cricket, my family and I thank you all for your support,” he added.
CWI has been criticised in some quarters for the T20 captaincy change.
In an Instagram post on Tuesday, former West Indies skipper Dwayne Bravo condemned the move.
Bravo, who helped the West Indies capture the 2012 and 2016 World T20 titles, said CWI had treated Powell unfairly.
“@Windiescricket once again you guys prove to the people of the Caribbean and the cricket world that the injustices towards players continues!
“As a former player and a fan of WI cricket, this is easily one of the worst decisions ever,” Bravo, a Trinidadian, wrote.
“Rovman Powell taking over the captaincy when our T20 team was in ninth spot and was able to move up to third spot 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,” Bravo further added.