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[Saba Sports News] The ongoing Pink ball Test at the Gabba between Australia and the West Indies has turned into a gripping contest. The West Indies, after losing their top order quickly, staged a remarkable comeback, thanks to commendable batting from Kavem Hodge, Joshua Da Silva, and debutant Kevin Sinclair, who each hit fifties.
Similarly, Australia faced early setbacks, finding themselves at 54/4. However, half-centuries from captain Pat Cummins and Alex Carey kept them in contention. During this match, West Indian pacer Kemar Roach caught the attention of Australian cricket legend Ricky Ponting. Prior to Day 3, Roach joined Ponting and other cricket experts in an interview discussing his first innings performance.
Ponting nostalgically recalled Roach’s formidable pace and bounce from a 2009 Test in Perth, known for its fast pitch. He vividly remembered how Roach had bruised him during that game. Despite suffering an elbow injury at 23 runs and batting later at number 9, Ponting’s Australian team clinched a 35-run victory. Roach humorously retorted about Ponting’s handling of his pace.
The conversation took a light-hearted turn as Ponting joked that Roach still owed him about 1.5 million dollars. He credited himself for recommending Roach to IPL teams, resulting in a lucrative contract for the pacer. Ponting highlighted that Roach’s bowling in Adelaide during the 2009-2010 tour was even faster than in Perth.
Roach reflected on his younger days, admitting he relied more on pace and bounce than seam and swing skills he possesses now. He emphasized his enjoyment of bowling fast during that period.
Post the Perth match, Roach experienced an accident affecting his pace, prompting a shift towards focusing on line, length, and seam movement. Currently, as West Indies undergoes a transition, Roach plays a crucial role in mentoring young bowlers, aiming to revive the nation’s cricketing glory.