Shamar Joseph: Bowler behind the rise of West Indies?

Shamar Joseph (Pic: File Pic)

West Indies clashed with Australia in a two-match test series which ended in a tie. The Aussies took advantage of their home ground and won the first test by 10 wickets.

The second test match was played at Australia's fortress-'The Gabba'. The hosts have strong records at this stadium with several historic wins registered to their name.

West Indies, though, won the second match and registered history by securing their first-ever win in Australia after 27 years. This win was not an ordinary one as defeating cricketing giants Australia on their home turf is not a cup of tea. Can this be called "The Rise of West Indies?"

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The name that helped the West Indies register history is Shamar Joseph. The 24-year-old speedster debuted during the first test against Australia in Adelaide. There he bagged five wickets for 94 runs. The interesting part of the story is during the second test, Australia's lead Mitchell Strac bowled a toe-crushing yorker to Joseph which made him retire hurt in the second innings.

That day, he limped all the way to the West Indies dugout. Despite being injured, the youngster did not take a step back and again appeared on the field the next day. The cricket world witnessed some magical spell from Joseph at the Gabba. He dismissed all the star Australian batsmen and registered seven wickets for just 68 runs to his name.

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A boy from Baracara, where there was no internet and telecommunication facilities till 2018 broke the pride of Australians on their home ground. He bowled a spell about which even the opponent team's captain Pat Cummins paid respect by exchanging jerseys with him. Cricketing legends Sachin Tendulkar, Ab De Villiers and Brian Lara took their social media handles to cheer the youngster. Earlier, he used to work in a company as a security guard which made him leave hopes for his cricketing career.

From idolising the great Curtly Ambrose and Courtney Walsh to representing his country, Shamar Joseph came a long way. He played a vital role in the West Indies' historic win in Australia.