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[Saba Sports News] The West Indies achieved a momentous victory against Australia in the second Test of their series, triumphing by eight runs on Day 4 at The Gabba, Brisbane. Entering the day with Australia needing 156 runs with eight wickets remaining, Shamar Joseph’s remarkable bowling figures of 7/68 led to the hosts’ defeat. This win marked the West Indies’ first Test victory in Australia in 27 years and was also Australia’s first loss in a day-night Test.
West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite cited criticism from former Australian fast bowler Rodney Hogg as a motivational factor for their turnaround. After their loss in the first match, Hogg had disparaged the West Indies team as “hopeless and pathetic,” comparing them unfavorably to past West Indies teams. Brathwaite used these comments as inspiration, challenging Hogg’s critique in the post-match presentation.
Hogg had criticized the team’s performance in Adelaide, doubting their ability to withstand Mitchell Starc’s bowling in Brisbane and suggested creating divisions in cricket due to “weak sides.” He also nostalgically referred to the physical stature of past West Indian players compared to the current team.
Despite the challenges, the West Indies displayed resilience throughout the Test. They recovered from 64/5 on Day 1, thanks to a significant partnership between Kavem Hodge and Joshua Da Silva, which helped them post 311 in their first innings. The West Indies bowling attack, led by Alzarri Joseph and Kemar Roach, then effectively restricted Australia’s first innings.
Shamar Joseph’s outstanding performance earned him the Player of the Match and Player of the Series awards, as he took 13 wickets and scored 57 runs in his debut Test series.