Ahead of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2025, defending champions St Lucia Kings have made a significant leadership change. With Faf du Plessis, who guided the team to their maiden title last year, opting out of this year’s tournament to participate in The Hundred, the franchise has handed the captaincy baton to a new leader. The announcement comes just days before the start of the tournament, which kicks off on August 14.
St Lucia Kings appoint star all-rounder as captain
The Kings have appointed experienced all-rounder David Wiese as their captain for the 2025 season. Wiese, a key figure in the side’s success last year, expressed his excitement and gratitude upon being given the responsibility.
“I am absolutely humbled to be named your captain. This season, we will be playing with passion, heart and unity. You will see us give everything for each other and for you. And fans, we need you with us to pack the stadiums, lift the vibe and let’s paint Saint Lucia blue. Let’s make this a special season,” Wiese said in a message to fans.
The franchise also welcomed back star batter Tim David, who was picked in the first round of this year’s draft. St Lucia Kings will begin their campaign on August 17 against Antigua and Barbuda Falcons in North Sound.
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A proven performer and a leader
Wiese has been with the St Lucia Kings since 2021 and brings a wealth of experience to the captaincy role. Last season, he played a crucial part in the title run, scoring 121 runs in seven innings at a strike rate of 168.05 and averaging over 40. With the ball, he claimed 13 wickets at an economy of 8.34, consistently delivering under pressure.
Interestingly, Wiese becomes the first player from an Associate nation to be appointed full-time captain in a franchise league run by a Test-playing country. A former South Africa international who later represented Namibia until his retirement in 2024, Wiese also brings prior captaincy experience, having led Lahore Qalandars in the PSL and Northern Superchargers in The Hundred.
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