Photo Credit: The Hindu
Australia produced a clinical performance to claim a commanding 159-run victory over the West Indies in the first Test of the Frank Worrell Trophy series at the Kensington Oval in Barbados. The match concluded inside three days, giving Australia a 1-0 lead in the three-match series and 12 crucial World Test Championship points.
Match Summary
Australia’s victory was built on the back of a strong lower-middle order recovery, tight bowling, and exceptional spells from their pace attack. West Indies, in contrast, suffered from repeated batting collapses, poor fielding, and missed opportunities.
Hazlewood’s Devastating Spell
Josh Hazlewood was the architect of the West Indies’ downfall in the second innings, claiming 5 for 43. He dismantled the batting line-up with a fiery spell that included four wickets in just 16 deliveries, triggering a collapse that saw the hosts bowled out for 141 while chasing 301.
His bowling was precise, aggressive, and unrelenting, proving too much for the West Indies’ fragile batting lineup. Nathan Lyon cleaned up the tail, taking the final two wickets, ensuring a rapid end to the match.
Batting Contributions and Recovery
Australia had earlier posted 310 in their second innings, thanks to gritty performances from the lower-middle order. Travis Head scored a fluent 61, while Beau Webster contributed 63. Wicketkeeper Alex Carey added a quickfire 50 to build a defendable lead.
This recovery came after Australia found themselves struggling at 187 for 6, before Head and Webster’s partnership revived the innings.
Travis Head Named Player of the Match
Travis Head was named Player of the Match, marking a record-setting moment as he became the first player to win the award in the new World Test Championship format. He scored fifties in both innings and anchored the Australian middle order when it mattered most.
Fielding Lapses and Umpiring Frustrations
West Indies’ defeat was made worse by sloppy fielding, dropping seven catches throughout the match. The team also expressed frustration over multiple controversial DRS decisions that went against them. Head coach Darren Sammy voiced his concerns about the umpiring consistency and use of technology after the match.
Looking Ahead
Australia’s victory in the opening Test places them in a strong position heading into the second match, scheduled to begin July 3 in Grenada. The bowling unit, led by Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, and Mitchell Starc, continues to be the backbone of the side.
West Indies will need to regroup quickly. While their pace bowlers showed glimpses of promise, their batting and fielding remain major concerns. With the series slipping early, the second Test will be critical for the home side to bounce back and keep the series alive.
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