West Indies Test captain Kraigg Brathwaite is set to join an elite club as he prepares to play his 100th Test match, becoming only the 12th West Indian cricketer to achieve this historic feat. As the Caribbean team readies to take on England at Lord’s from Wednesday, Brathwaite reflected on his journey filled with struggles, perseverance, and unyielding love for Test cricket.
Brathwaite’s Emotional Reflection
Speaking to reporters ahead of the milestone match, the 31-year-old opener said:
“It’s been a tough journey, no doubt. A lot of ups and downs, but I’ve always loved Test cricket. That passion kept me going even when runs weren’t coming or critics were loud.”
From Debut To 100 Tests: The Journey
- Debut: November 2011 vs Pakistan in Abu Dhabi at age 18.
- Initial struggles: Averaged just 22 in first 10 Tests but cemented his place with grit and patience.
- Rise as mainstay: Scored maiden Test ton against New Zealand in 2012 and never looked back.
- Captaincy: Took over full-time Test captaincy in 2021, leading with calm resilience despite West Indies’ inconsistent team performances.
Brathwaite’s Test Career Stats (Before 100th Test)
| Matches | Runs | Average | 100s/50s | Highest Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 99 | 5,429 | 34.9 | 12/28 | 212 vs Bangladesh (2014) |
What Makes Brathwaite Special?
- Technique and Patience: Known for his ability to bat long hours and anchor innings even on difficult pitches.
- Leadership: Commands respect in the dressing room for leading by example and maintaining composure under pressure.
- Commitment to Red Ball Cricket: Unlike many modern cricketers focusing on T20 leagues, Brathwaite has remained devoted to Tests.
Top 3 Memorable Knocks
✅ 212 vs Bangladesh (2014, Kingston): His maiden double century that sealed his reputation as a solid opener.
✅ 110 vs England (2022, Barbados):* Match-saving innings where he batted over 12 hours across both innings.
✅ 134 vs Pakistan (2016, Sharjah): Led West Indies to a rare overseas victory with a fourth-innings masterclass.
Brathwaite On Challenges Faced
“The hardest part was dealing with criticism and maintaining confidence. Every failure teaches you something. I’ve learned to trust my process and block out the noise.”
He added that West Indies cricket’s declining fortunes made leadership tougher:
“It’s about creating belief. We may not have the same resources, but our pride is unmatched. I want to inspire the next generation to play Tests for West Indies.”
Reactions From The Cricket World
Brian Lara
“Kraigg has been the pillar of West Indies’ batting. His dedication to Test cricket is remarkable.”
Jason Holder
“100 Tests is massive. He deserves every bit of it for his discipline and hunger.”
Michael Atherton
“Brathwaite has carried a fragile batting lineup for years. Technically correct and mentally strong – a true Test opener.”
What’s At Stake In His 100th Test?
The upcoming match at Lord’s will see West Indies attempting to upset England in their backyard, a feat last achieved in 2017. Brathwaite has urged his team to play fearless cricket:
“We want to fight for every run, every ball. Lord’s is special and we want to leave a mark.”
Elite Club: West Indians With 100+ Tests
| Player | Matches |
|---|---|
| Shivnarine Chanderpaul | 164 |
| Brian Lara | 131 |
| Courtney Walsh | 132 |
| Desmond Haynes | 116 |
| Clive Lloyd | 110 |
| Gordon Greenidge | 108 |
| Viv Richards | 121 |
| Carl Hooper | 102 |
| Joel Garner | 103 |
| Courtney Browne | 109 |
| Curtly Ambrose | 98 |
| Kraigg Brathwaite | 99* |
(Note: Ambrose fell just short at 98)
Final Takeaway
As Kraigg Brathwaite walks out for his 100th Test, he embodies resilience, grit, and West Indies cricketing heritage. His milestone is not just a personal triumph but also an inspiration for young Caribbean cricketers to believe in the enduring beauty and challenge of Test cricket.
The cricketing world will keenly watch as the quiet leader marks this historic chapter at the Mecca of cricket, Lord’s, hoping to script yet another memorable innings for his team and country.
Disclaimer: Player quotes sourced from West Indies Cricket press conference and media interactions ahead of the first Test against England at Lord’s, July 2025.
