In the culmination of the second Test, Joseph showcased his prowess with the ball, amassing an impressive 8-wicket match haul, where he dominated by claiming 7 wickets in Australia’s second innings alone. His exceptional performance contributed to a total of 14 wickets in the span of two games, establishing him as the second-highest wicket-taker in the two-match series.
Australia, having previously surrendered their fortress to India three years ago, faced yet another unexpected setback at the Gabba, this time at the hands of the West Indies. Trailing 1-0 in the series after a loss in the Adelaide Test, the Caribbean tourists orchestrated a spirited comeback, securing a victory on Australian soil. In pursuit of 216, Australia crumbled, managing only 207 runs as the rookie speedster, Shamar Joseph, wreaked havoc in Brisbane.
Joseph, who had undergone scans after retiring hurt due to a toe injury inflicted by a Mitchell Starc yorker, demonstrated resilience and skill by claiming 7-68 on the decisive Sunday. This stellar performance resulted in the West Indies bowling out Australia for 207, marking their first triumph in Australia since 1997.
Remarkably, less than a year prior to this triumph, Joseph wasn’t even a First-class cricketer. In a fascinating turn of events, during India’s dominant display at the Gabba in 2021, Joseph was working as a security officer in Berbice. Hailing from a remote area in Guyana, he engaged in makeshift cricket games using fruits or melted plastic bottles as a ball with his cousin.
Joseph’s journey took a significant turn when he crossed paths with Damion Vantull, a former Guyana cricketer turned businessman. Vantull played a pivotal role in shaping Joseph’s cricketing career, facilitating his ascent to the highest level. Despite familial restrictions that limited Joseph to playing cricket only on Sundays due to religious commitments, he persevered and eventually earned a spot in the Guyanese national side.
Debuting under the auspices of the legendary Brian Lara ahead of the Adelaide Test, Joseph left an indelible mark in his opening over by dismissing Aussie vice-captain Steve Smith on the very first ball. Although the West Indies lost the game, Joseph secured a five-wicket haul on debut. His journey continued with a return to the Gabba, where he not only took a single wicket in the first innings but also orchestrated a remarkable 7-wicket haul in the second, guiding the West Indies to a memorable victory.
Having participated in 6 First-class games, 2 List A matches, and as many T20 fixtures, Joseph has amassed 26 FC wickets and 2 in List As, with his account in the shortest format yet to open. His meteoric rise from a security officer playing makeshift cricket to a match-winner on the international stage is a testament to his dedication, talent, and the mentorship of individuals like Damion Vantull.
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