Like Simmons, Holder had been brought back to bolster the middle order with the loss of Hooper and Chanderpaul. His recent regional returns have also been very impressive, averaging just over 41 in 8 innings. His selection was a very good one and well deserved. This is something of a come-back team for the first Test. The stability that Holder brings to the West Indies batting team is that he probably plays spin better than most in the Caribbean. With Shane Warne and Stuart MacGill flexing their fingers and wrists these last few days, Holder's presence will be worth his weight in gold.

He is the captain of Barbados and has done a good job of getting them to the final of the 1999 regional competition. He could even be named Vice Captain when the Test comes around. He certainly has the experience and the ability to lead well.

Holder, like Simmons, have not really cemented his position in the team when they had their opportunities. His highest Test score is in the eighties, ironically in T&T, at the venue for the first Test, the Queens Park Oval. Holder was born in Trinidad & Tobago, even though he plays for Barbados.

Roland Holder is also a senior member of the West Indies Players Association and one of the few people who has some real training for a life outside of cricket, having gotten a degree at the University of the West Indies. His people skills and his manipulation and leadership talents could come to bear before this series is finished. (Colin Croft, March 1999)

First Class debut: 1986 v Trinidad & Tobago at Bridgetown

• Roland Holder steps down as secretary of WIPA (Dec 18, 2004)
  
• Holder To Lead Windies 'B" (Jan 17, 2002)
  
• End of the road for Holder? (Aug 4, 2001)

Dec 22, 1997 The Champions Trophy Final, England v West Indies, Holder is lbw b Fleming © AllSport UK Ltd

Holder whacks Lehmann for a four © Action Photographics

Holder: Trade card You Will Never Forget © Topdraw (Marketing) Ltd

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