Denesh Ramdin appointed West Indies Test captain as Darren Sammy retires to focus on leading the Twenty20 team

Ramdin says it is an 'honour' to skipper his country and has paid tribute to his predecessor who retired soon after being removed as captain

Denesh Ramdin has been appointed as the new Test captain of the West Indies.

Ramdin replaces Darren Sammy who has retired from the Test arena in the wake of leaving the post but will continue to skipper the Windies Twenty20 team.

Wicketkeeper-batsman Ramdin has played 56 Tests for his country and had served as Sammy's vice-captain before being appointed to the top job.

His first assignment will be the home series against New Zealand beginning on June 8.

"It is an honour to be named as captain of the West Indies Test team," he said. "This is a huge opportunity and as a unit we are capable of representing the people of the West Indies.

"It is something very special to represent the people of the West Indies and to be named to lead the Test team and chart the course forward is humbling and extra special.

"I thank the WICB for affording me this incredible opportunity and I also thank the TTCB for the opportunity to lead Trinidad and Tobago.

"I am taking over from Darren who did a good job while he was at the helm. He is a very humble and hardworking cricketer."

The outgoing Sammy made his Test debut in 2007 and became captain three years later having played just eight matches.

The 30-year-old skippered the side to two series victories over Bangladesh as well as triumphs over Zimbabwe and New Zealand.

But four losses in the last five Tests against India and the Black Caps prompted the West Indies Cricket Board to make a change.

"We thank Darren for his energetic and resolute leadership over the past four years and we continue to see his role as the Twenty20 captain as a critical one," said WICB chairman Dave Cameron.

"We wish Denesh consistent success and commit the full support of the Board as he takes on the mammoth responsibility of Test captain."

Sammy announced his Test retirement soon after he was removed as captain but had words of encouragement for his replacement.

"Congratulations to Ramdin on being named Test captain. God's speed brother as you look to take us forward," he said.

"Thanks to all for the support."

Sammy will remain available for one-day selection under skipper Dwayne Bravo and this will be the first time that the West Indies have had separate captains in all three formats of the game.

PA