Australia’s Josh Hazlewood Claims 11th Five-Wicket Total in Test Matches
Australia’s Josh Hazlewood showcased his bowling prowess as he claimed his 11th five-wicket total in Test matches, contributing to a resounding 10-wicket win over the West Indies on the third day of the first Test in Adelaide, Australia.
On the third day, Australia dismissed the West Indies for 120 in the 13th over, leaving the home side needing just 26 runs to secure victory. Steven Smith and Usman Khawaja effortlessly completed the total for Australia, although Khawaja retired hurt after being hit by a bouncer with Australia needing one run to win. Marnus Labuschagne ultimately hit the winning run two balls later.
Hazlewood’s Exceptional Performance
At the start of the day, Hazlewood had already taken four wickets for 18 runs, helping Australia reduce the West Indies to 73 for six in its second innings before stumps on the second day. Australia led by 95 runs on the first innings after making 283 in reply to the West Indies’ 188.
Hazlewood expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, stating, “It’s nice to have the weekend off now. It’s nice as a group to play on that wicket. It felt like there was enough there the whole game. I felt I bowled just as well in the first half of the summer with no result. The wickets have been really good and playing with this team, it feels relentless and the pressure just builds all the time.”
Captain Pat Cummins’ Perspective
Captain Pat Cummins also praised Hazlewood, noting, “The big fella (Hazlewood) really turned it on for us this week. We had a decent lead but not a huge lead and he took the game away from them in one spell really.”
The West Indies’ Efforts and Next Test
The big question at the start of the day was whether the West Indies would be able to make Australia bat again. It began to look unlikely when Mitchell Starc and Hazlewood made significant breakthroughs in the West Indies innings. Despite a small rearguard action from Shamar Joseph and Kemar Roche, the West Indies fell short, setting the stage for the second and final test between the teams beginning January 25 in Brisbane, a day-night match at the Gabba.
West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite commended Shamar Joseph, stating, “He’s full of energy and he makes me laugh a lot. He has a lot of talent, a lot of skill and he can score some runs as well.”
Conclusion
The first Test showcased stellar performances from both sides, with Hazlewood’s exceptional bowling leading Australia to victory. With the next test around the corner, cricket fans can anticipate another thrilling encounter between these two formidable teams.