Sammy replaces Gayle as West Indies captain

ST JOHN'S, Antigua (CMC):

Darren Sammy has been named captain of West Indies to usher in a new era of leadership for the beleaguered side.

In a predictable move, the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) announced yesterday that the 26-year-old all-rounder will take over from Chris Gayle and lead the side until the end of next year's home series.

The regional governing body also made a surprising choice, elevating Australia-born left-hander Brendan Nash as Test-only vice captain for the same period.

"Being appointed West Indies captain is an honour and distinction, which I will treat with the highest regard and dignity," said Sammy in a WICB media release.

"I believe my captaincy of Windward Islands, a young team, which I have been moulding into playing consistently competitive cricket, will stand me in good stead as West Indies captain as we work on building a team for the future."

The coronation of Sammy comes following Chris Gayle's decision to become a free agent and turn his back on a WICB central retainer contract that would have paid him around US $120,000 over the next year.

Memorable home series

The 31-year-old Gayle led West Indies over the last three years in 20 Tests (won three, lost nine), including a memorable home series triumph over England last year, and West Indies' only Test victory in South Africa the previous year.

He also captained the side in 53 one-day internationals (won 17, lost 30) and 17 Twenty20 internationals (won six, lost 10).

With few options to replace Gayle, the WICB has turned to Sammy, whose commitment to the cause of West Indies cricket has never been a matter of public discourse.

Chastised by former coach

His place, however, has been, and he was even chastised by former coach John Dyson for his inability to be more penetrative with his steady medium-paced bowling.

"I have always given my all, when I prepare and play for West Indies and nothing will change now. I know this will be a difficult challenge and I will take the torch from Chris and hold it high as we forge ahead," said Sammy.

"I have been playing for the West Indies since 2004 and over those six years I have built strong relationships with many players and I expect to have the full support of the squad."

With an unflattering personal record and a team with a tarnished brand, Sammy would need Gayle, in particular, to take the snub from the WICB's hierarchy and think-tank like the physical giant he is and transfer any latent resentment on to opposing bowlers to do what he does best - tear them apart!

"Chris Gayle, the former captain, led the West Indies during a challenging period and the Board thanks him for stepping up then, but it is now time to pass the mantle on as the West Indies rebuilds," said WICB chief executive officer, Ernest Hilaire.