West Indies’ sensation, fast bowler Shamar Joseph, has clinched the coveted title of International Cricket Council (ICC) Player of the Month for January, in recognition of his stellar performances during the thrilling two-match drawn Test Series against Australia.
Making his mark in his inaugural Test at the Adelaide Oval, Joseph showcased his prowess. His valiant knock of 36 runs off just 41 deliveries, adorned with 3 fours and a six, stood out amidst a formidable Australian pace attack.
Moreover, Joseph’s bowling heroics in the same match further solidified his reputation as a rising star in the cricketing realm.
He scalped a remarkable five-wicket haul, notably dismissing top Australian batsmen such as Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, and Cameron Green, alongside tailenders Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon. His performance was a testament to his skill and composure under pressure.
Undeterred by adversity, Joseph’s determination reached new heights in the second Test at the Gabba, Brisbane. After taking one wicket in the first innings, he faced a setback with an injury sustained while batting. Despite this, he made a remarkable comeback on Day 4, seizing the opportunity to etch his name in cricketing history.
With an awe-inspiring spell of 11.5 overs, Joseph claimed seven crucial wickets, steering the West Indies to a historic Test match victory in Australia after 27 years, thereby leveling the series.
Miles Bascombe, Cricket West Indies (CWI) Director of Cricket, lauded Joseph’s achievement, expressing hopes for a flourishing career ahead in the esteemed maroon jersey.
Congratulations to Sharma Joseph..It’s well deserved. My hope is that you stay fit and injury free! Additionally my fervent wish is also that you keep moving up the bowling ladder, and one day become the number ONE speedster in the world.
Alzarri still pitches too short, and that’s why he is so expensive. Hope that he quickly learns from you, his junior team mate…, because in England this year we goona have Sharma Joseph, Jayden Seals and Alzarri himself all of which can and will colck 140km/hr.
Congrats to Joseph!!! Well deserved! Hopefully we will be expressing similar sentiments to our countrymen Athanaze and Hodge.
Both Athanaze and Hodge have a very very long way to go before you can see that. Athanaze was a TOTAL failure in Australia. He was lucky not to have been dropped. Hodge has to prove that he can consistently score runs, including hundreds. So far he has not.
Your assessment is on point. I suppose I am just pipe dreaming when it comes to our local lads. Athanaze did tank down under and Hodge is a bit long in the tooth!
As a matter of fact, Athanaze is at risk for non-selection to the senior team after his disappearing act against the Aussies.