In an extraordinary turn of events on Monday, the West Indies cricket team pulled off a sensational win against Australia at the Gabba, marking their first victory on Australian soil in 27 years. Despite missing key players like Jason Holder and Kyle Mayers, the young and relatively inexperienced West Indies side triumphed over the reigning world Test champions by eight runs.
The victory sparked a wave of celebration, even among Australian fans who fondly remembered the days when the West Indies dominated world cricket. Former West Indies captain and batting legend Brian Lara, visibly emotional on the Fox Cricket commentary panel, expressed his disbelief and joy as Shamar Joseph secured the last Australian wicket. Lara, who played in the last West Indies team to beat Australia in Australia in 1997, called it a monumental day for West Indies cricket.
Thanks to this young man Shamar Joseph for bowling one of the most remarkably courageous, & high quality spells on an injured right foot. All credit to you and your loved ones bro, for what you have achieved and will continue to achieve. pic.twitter.com/fA0Wd8id67
— Ian Raphael Bishop (@irbishi) January 28, 2024
Another West Indies cricket icon, Carl Hooper, was captured breaking down in a viral video as he walked around the ABC Sports broadcasters’ room, wiping tears of joy after the historic win. Ian Bishop, former fast bowler and commentator, shared his excitement on Twitter, reinforcing the significance of the moment for West Indies cricket.
Even former West Indies captains Chris Gayle and Dwayne Bravo, known for their successful Test careers before transitioning to T20 cricket, expressed their happiness on Instagram. Kieron Pollard and Nicholas Pooran, former white-ball captains, also joined in the celebrations, acknowledging the team’s incredible teamwork and congratulating them on the momentous occasion.
The Australian team, cruising towards the target of 216 on day four of the day-night second test, faced an unexpected challenge from the young West Indies side. Shamar Joseph, playing his first test series and nursing an injury, returned to the field to deliver a fiery showcase of fast bowling. His decisive dismissal of tailender Josh Hazlewood (0) with sheer speed sealed the West Indies’ triumph, with Joseph celebrating passionately with his teammates.
This victory comes at a crucial time for West Indies cricket, providing a boost amid recent disappointments, such as failing to qualify for the 50-over World Cup in 2023. Shamar Joseph, the hero of the moment, has also earned recognition beyond the Test arena, being signed by Dubai Capitals for the upcoming International League T20 tournament.
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