World Test Champions Australia displayed their cricket prowess with a commanding 10-wicket triumph over a depleted West Indies team at the Adelaide Oval. The match, which concluded within seven sessions, showcased Josh Hazlewood's brilliance as he claimed a remarkable five-wicket haul, finishing with figures of 5/35.
The encounter took a dramatic turn when Usman Khawaja, on the brink of victory with Australia just one run away, was forced to retire hurt due to a head blow from West Indies debutant Shamar Joseph. However, Australia's dominance was apparent from the start, as they secured a substantial 95-run lead in the first inning, setting the tone for the low-scoring affair. Hazlewood's stellar performance in dismantling the West Indies top order further solidified Australia's control.
Facing a target of 26 runs for a 1-0 lead in the two-test series, Australia efficiently chased it down in just 6.4 overs, sealing their victory. Despite the defeat, the West Indies found a silver lining in Shamar Joseph, who emerged as a potential match-winner. The 24-year-old Guyanese showcased his talents with a notable 36 in the first innings and a five-wicket haul in his debut Test.
Can the West Indies turn the tide in Gabba?
Australia's win not only secured their dominance in the series but also strengthened their position at the top of the World Test Championship standings. On the other hand, the West Indies, facing a winless streak in Australia since 1997, will be eager to regroup before the second and final Test in Brisbane, scheduled as a day-night fixture starting on Thursday. As the series progresses, all eyes will be on how both teams adapt and strategize for the challenges that lie ahead.
The second game of the series will take place at the iconic Gabba Stadium in Brisbane on January 25. The game will be important for both teams, as 12 crucial points will be at stake for both teams in the ongoing WTC cycle. Defending champions Australia is in a comfortable position, while India leads the chart currently.
Here is how fans react to Australia’s win:
A dominant performance sets the tone for the series! A 10-wicket win for the team in #AUSvWI, finishing before lunch on day three. What a way to kick off the cricket action!
— محمد سمیع (@ucancallmesamee) January 19, 2024
Wow a great Win. Hazlewood done it all
— Faheem Siddiqi (@engr_siddiqi) January 19, 2024
big victory for Australia
— afzaal ch (@afzaalch79) January 19, 2024
What happened to Usman
— Glen Williams (@GlenWillia48787) January 19, 2024
With the next test at the gabba will smith try make it up in time to play for the sixers tonight.. 😆
— Jamie (@Koota43) January 19, 2024
5 day test don't exist anymore.
— Cyndi Bif (@Cyndi_Briff) January 19, 2024
Well done Australia.
Which genius thought WI would be competitive 🤣
— Tom (@TMELOMAGPIES) January 19, 2024
Stop being so good at cricket and robbing us of days and days of action..
— CMoss (@CameronMoss97) January 19, 2024
Time to bring in Australia A so we can get some competition (and develop future test stars)
— Nathan Glennie (@fireballmudflap) January 19, 2024
Congratulations Australia team first test win this series .🇦🇺😎
— Maxwell fan 🇦🇺❤ (@Idreesmaxwell5) January 19, 2024
Hope khawaja plays next test
— James (@james1777777777) January 19, 2024
Hazelwood deserved to get the MOTM
— Moksh Mehta (@Moksh_Mehta30) January 19, 2024
Test over just on the beginning of the weekend. Horrible scheduling.
— T-Bag 🇦🇺 (@Thomas58974615) January 19, 2024