On the eve of Shamar Joseph’s 25th birthday, let’s revisit one of his most memorable performances against Australia at the Gabba fortress. He delivered a clinical and historic spell that stunned fans and critics.
Shamar Joseph, a young fast bowler from a remote village in Guyana, rose to fame by dismissing Australian great Steve Smith on his first delivery in international cricket on Test debut.
However, the Gabba masterclass truly announced Joseph’s arrival in Test cricket with a bang.
Chasing 216 in the second Test, Australia looked comfortable with 113/2 when Shamar Joseph struck twice to remove set batters Cameron Green and Travis Head in two successive deliveries. These breakthroughs set the tone for the rest of the innings as Joseph continued to apply pressure.
Interestingly, Shamar was doubtful for Day 4 as he was struck on the toe by Mitchell Starc’s yorker. However, the medical team got him up and ready with painkillers.
In a matter of 10 overs, Shamar Joseph completely changed the direction of the game with four wickets, including Alex Carey and Mitchell Marsh.
Happy birthday, Shamar Joseph! 🌟
– Relive the iconic moment when he helped West Indies register a memorable win at the Gabba. the commentary of Ian Smith was a double delight! 👌 pic.twitter.com/enOQi55L9u
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) August 31, 2024
However, Joseph’s five-wicket haul wasn’t enough as Steve Smith weathered the fiery spell to continue his attacking approach.
With Australia reduced to 187/8, Steve Smith smoked an outrageous six to keep his team in the hunt. With 29 runs short, Shamar Joseph calmed his nerves to knock out Josh Hazlewood and secure a sensational 8-run victory for West Indies, thus breaching the Gabba fortress.
The seven-wicket haul in Gabba was more than just a personal achievement for Joseph; it’s a promise of what’s to come for West Indies cricket.
The Rise Of Shamar Joseph In Test Cricket
Shamar Joseph’s performance at the Gabba was only the beginning of his Test cricket journey. To shed the tag of one-hit wonder, Joseph picked up a five-wicket haul against South Africa in the second Test held at Guyana.
His wickets once again consisted of the Protea top order. With these two fantastic spells, Joseph has demonstrated his potential to be a match-winner on any surface against any opposition.