Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) mentor Dwayne Bravo has strongly criticized Cricket West Indies (CWI) for their decision to remove Rovman Powell as the T20I captain. The announcement, made on Monday, confirmed that Shai Hope will replace Powell as the leader of the West Indies T20I team. This unexpected change has sparked a wave of controversy, with Bravo voicing his disappointment on social media.

Bravo Fumes Over Powell’s Replacement

Bravo, a legendary all-rounder and key figure in West Indies cricket, did not hold back in expressing his frustration over CWI’s decision. Currently serving as the mentor of KKR in IPL 2025, he took to Instagram to question the cricket board’s handling of Powell’s captaincy.

“This is how you repay a player?” Bravo wrote, openly criticizing the move.

Powell, who is currently playing for KKR in IPL 2025, has been a crucial part of the West Indies squad. Under his leadership, the team showed promise, making his sudden removal even more shocking.

CWI’s Bold Call: Shai Hope Named New Captain

Cricket West Indies has appointed Shai Hope as the new captain, a decision that has left many former players and fans puzzled. Powell, known for his aggressive captaincy and hard-hitting batting, was widely expected to lead the team in upcoming major tournaments. However, CWI’s decision indicates a shift in leadership strategy.

The board has not provided a detailed explanation for the change, which has fueled speculation. Some believe it could be a strategic move ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026, while others feel it might be an internal decision based on team dynamics.

Powell’s Contribution to West Indies Cricket

Over the years, Powell has played a significant role in shaping West Indies’ T20 squad. His aggressive batting style and ability to take charge under pressure have made him one of the most dependable players in the lineup. Under his leadership, West Indies secured notable victories, reinforcing his value as a leader.

Many experts argue that Powell’s experience and leadership qualities should have earned him more time at the helm. His dismissal as captain has sparked debates about whether this was a fair decision.

Reactions Pour In from Cricket Fraternity

Bravo is not the only one who has questioned CWI’s decision. Several former cricketers and analysts have expressed their views on social media, with many supporting Powell and calling for transparency from CWI.

“Leadership should be earned and respected, not taken away without proper reasoning,” wrote a former West Indies player on Twitter.

Powell, however, has yet to make an official statement regarding his removal. Fans are eagerly waiting for his response and his plans for the future.

What’s Next for Powell?

Despite losing the captaincy, Powell remains a key player in the West Indies T20 setup. His presence in IPL 2025 with KKR gives him an opportunity to showcase his talent on a global stage. If he continues to perform well, he could still play a major role in West Indies cricket, even without the captaincy.

On the other hand, Shai Hope now has the challenge of leading the team into a new era. As a seasoned batter with strong leadership skills, he will need to prove that he is the right choice to take the team forward.

Final Thoughts: Fair or Unfair Decision?

The decision to remove Rovman Powell as T20I captain has sparked a heated debate. While some see it as a fresh start for West Indies cricket, others feel it was an unfair move that undermines a player who had shown promise as a leader.

With Bravo’s strong reaction and Powell’s silence, the cricketing world will be watching closely to see how this controversy unfolds. One thing is clear: Powell’s journey is far from over, and he still has much to prove on the field.

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