Just days after being dismissed as "crap" by Australian legend Ian Healy, West Indies seamer Shamar Joseph responded emphatically, claiming 4 wickets for 46 runs in the first innings of the first Test against Australia. His performance included a particularly impressive dismissal, leaving critics eating their words.
Healy's pre-match comments, made on SEN, targeted Joseph's warning to Sam Konstas during the Test match. Healy stated Joseph had delivered "crap all year". He further added, "You're not Curtly Ambrose, champ,".
However, Joseph let his bowling do the talking on the opening day in Bridgetown. He played a pivotal role in dismantling the Australian batting lineup.
One of Joseph's key wickets was that of Konstas himself. In the fourth over, Konstas was struck on the back leg, leading to a successful review by the West Indies. The replay confirmed the ball was going to hit the leg stump, giving Joseph the first breakthrough.
Joseph's impressive spell contributed to Australia being bowled out for a modest 180 runs. Jayden Seales also shone, adding to the Australian batting woes.
Despite Joseph and Seales' efforts, the West Indies struggled to capitalize, finishing the day at 57/4. This Test series marks Australia's first tour to the West Indies since 2015.
This is not the first time Joseph has troubled the Australian batsmen. During his second test in January 2024, he claimed six wickets in an incredible spell, leading to an Australian defeat. He finished with figures of 7/68. This secured an 8-run victory for the visitors at the Gabba, their first on Australian soil in 27 years.
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