Jason Holder is a distinguished Barbadian cricketer who has made significant contributions to the sport as a right-arm medium-fast bowling all-rounder. He made his One Day International (ODI) debut in February 2013 and quickly established himself as a key player for the West Indies. Holder’s leadership skills were recognized when he was appointed captain of the ODI team at just 23 years old, making him the youngest captain in West Indies history. Under his captaincy, the team reached the quarter-finals of the 2015 World Cup, showcasing his ability to lead under pressure.
In January 2019, Holder achieved the remarkable feat of being ranked as the number one all-rounder in the world according to the ICC Test rankings. His exceptional performance continued as he was named the Test Player of the Year by Cricket West Indies in August 2019. Holder’s prowess on the field is highlighted by his historic achievements, including being the first West Indian male cricketer to take a hat-trick in T20 Internationals and the second to reach both 2500 runs and 150 wickets in Test cricket, following the legendary Sir Garfield Sobers.
Holder’s impact extends beyond international cricket; he has also made his mark in various T20 leagues around the world. He has played for teams such as the Chennai Super Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and most recently, the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL. His ability to adapt and perform in different formats has made him a sought-after player in franchise cricket.
In addition to his on-field achievements, Holder has been recognized for his contributions to the game, being named one of Wisden’s Five Cricketers of the Year in April 2021. As he continues to represent the West Indies, Holder remains a pivotal figure in cricket, inspiring future generations with his dedication and skill.