Brathwaite’s Legacy in West Indies Cricket
Although Kraigg Brathwaite didn’t start in the West Indies lineup for the first time in ages during the third Test against Australia at Sabina Park, and faced pressure on his place as an opening batsman due to recent poor results, his legacy is firmly established.
Memorable Debut
A cherished photograph still hangs in his home, showing a young Brathwaite, barely 18, holding his first Test cap with sheer excitement. It was Sir Richie Richardson who presented the cap to him in St Kitts, offering valuable advice. What no one, including former captain Daren Sammy, could foresee was the ambitious dream that this humble teenager from Barbados held.
Dreams Realized
Fast forward fourteen years, and Brathwaite celebrated his 100th Test match in Grenada, a dream he had envisioned since he was 14. “I set that goal at 14—to play 100 Tests. Now, after 18 years, here I am playing for the West Indies. I want to inspire younger players,” he expressed.
Growing Confidence
Reflecting on his debut, Brathwaite recalled the pure excitement he felt, especially with his father present. “It was a fantastic experience against a formidable Pakistan team,” he noted. Initially unsure about performing on a big stage, he gained confidence as he played more matches, realizing he could succeed at this level.
Career Highlights
His first century against New Zealand in 2014 marked a significant turning point in his confidence. “Scoring my first 100 was an indescribable feeling,” he reminisced. Shortly after, he achieved his career-best score of 212 against Bangladesh and later carried his bat with an unbeaten 142 against Pakistan, showcasing his strong desire to lead from the front as an opener.
Leadership Achievements
Brathwaite’s proudest moment as Test captain came in 2021 when he led a young West Indies team to a 2-0 series victory in Bangladesh. However, the long-anticipated win in Australia early last year was particularly meaningful for him. “It felt special to beat Australia, a team we struggled against throughout my career,” he said.
A Legacy Built on Goals
Brathwaite joins an elite group of only ten West Indians to play 100 Tests, alongside legends like Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Brian Lara. He attributes his success to setting goals. “Work hard through both good and challenging times, staying disciplined and not taking any opportunity for granted,” he advised. His journey from his first-class debut at 16 to becoming the 290th Test cricketer for the West Indies has been remarkable, filled with patience and determination resulting in 5,950 runs, 12 centuries, and 31 half centuries.
CWI Media
West Indies Players with More Than 100 Tests
- Shivnarine Chanderpaul (164)
- Courtney Walsh (132)
- Brian Lara (130)
- Sir Vivian Richards (121)
- Desmond Haynes (116)
- Clive Lloyd (110)
- Gordon Greenidge (108)
- Chris Gayle (103)
- Carl Hooper (102)
- Kraigg Brathwaite (100)
