In a breathtaking turn of events at the Gabba, West Indies pulled off an extraordinary upset against Australia, winning by just eight runs in a dramatic finish that marked their first Test victory in Australia in 27 years. Skipper Kraigg Brathwaite attributed the remarkable turnaround to injured pride, emphasizing the need for more consistent opportunities in Test cricket for the Caribbean team.
Expectations were low for the West Indies touring squad, especially after a 10-wicket defeat in the first test in Adelaide. However, fueled by motivation from disparaging comments by former Australian pace bowler Rodney Hogg, the visitors, led by the exceptional young quick Shamar Joseph, silenced critics with a historic win at the Gabba.
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Brathwaite expressed the team’s response to Hogg’s comments, stating, “We wanted to let him know that we heard him.” The victory not only ended a drought of Test wins against Australia since 2003 but also served as a powerful message against disrespect.
Joseph’s outstanding performance, claiming 7 wickets in the second innings despite battling through injury, was the defining factor. The series draw, with both teams winning one match each, highlighted the West Indies’ resurgence in Test cricket.
The young quick’s commitment to Test cricket was evident as Joseph, named Man of the Series after his first two tests, expressed, “It’s my dream to play Test cricket for West Indies. I will always be available to play test cricket for West Indies, no matter how much money comes towards me.”
The Gabba thriller saw Australia chasing 216 for a 2-0 series victory. Initially cruising at 2-113, the hosts faced an unexpected collapse as Joseph, with a crushed toe from a Mitchell Starc yorker, delivered an incredible 10-over spell, taking six wickets and breaking the Test open.
Steve Smith’s resilient effort, carrying his bat with an unbeaten 91, added to the drama, but Joseph’s seventh wicket, dismissing Josh Hazlewood, sealed the historic win for West Indies. Joseph’s bowling prowess, peaking at around 150km/h, played a pivotal role in Australia’s downfall.
The victory underscored the importance of consistent opportunities in Test cricket for the West Indies. Brathwaite stressed, “I do believe we should be playing more Test cricket more consistently. That’s my cry. I always believe the more you play, especially when it’s (matches) close together, you learn as batsmen and bowlers. So this is a message for whoever it may be that we need more test cricket.”
As the West Indies celebrate their historic triumph, Joseph’s indomitable spirit and the team’s resilience have reignited hopes for a sustained revival in Test cricket.
Check out the historic win below
