David Wiese will lead St Lucia Kings in the 2025 Caribbean Premier League, stepping in after Faf du Plessis pulled out to undergo groin surgery. The Kings, last year’s champions, launch their title defence next week.
“I am absolutely humbled to be named your captain,” Wiese told supporters. “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.”
Key facts first
• Tournament starts 14 August.
• Kings’ first match: 17 August v Antigua & Barbuda Falcons in North Sound.
• First home fixture at Daren Sammy Cricket Ground: 23 August.
Why Wiese?
Last term the all-rounder chipped in 121 runs at a strike-rate nudging 170 and snared 13 wickets at 8.34 an over—numbers that matter in T20. He has played 26 CPL games for the Kings since joining in 2021, knows the dressing-room dynamics and, crucially, is available for the entire campaign.
Head coach Daren Sammy backed the appointment. “David Wiese has been a part of the family for a long time,” Sammy said. “He has been with us for a number of years and has put on some excellent performances. We cannot wait to start our first home game on August 23rd. We know Saint Lucia Kings are the best fans and you will come out at Daren Sammy Cricket Ground and paint it blue, as you support our new captain and our team.”
Broader context
Du Plessis, who fronted last season’s success, had initially opted for the Hundred before surgery ruled him out entirely. His absence leaves a sizeable leadership gap, though Wiese’s CV—stints with South Africa, later Namibia, and occasional captaincy gigs at Lahore Qalandars and Northern Superchargers—suggests he can handle it. In fact, he becomes the first player from an Associate nation to take full-time charge of a franchise in a Test-playing territory’s league, an interesting footnote for the sport’s global growth.
Squad moves
Tim David was snapped up in the first round of this year’s draft, adding middle-order punch. The final squad mix looks balanced on paper: power-hitters, two frontline spinners and enough pace to exploit early-season Caribbean surfaces. Yet balance on paper rarely guarantees smooth sailing once the tournament carousel whirls.
What to watch
1. Wiese’s dual role—can he juggle tactics while still delivering his back-of-the-hand slower ball under pressure?
2. How quickly Tim David settles; his ability to clear the ropes late on often swings tight chases.
3. Home advantage—Kings had the league’s best crowd figures last year; replicating that energy could add a few crucial points.
The opening week will give early clues. For now, the new skipper sounds ready, the coach seems convinced, and the fans—if they follow Wiese’s call to “paint Saint Lucia blue”—will have their say soon enough.
