AUS vs WI: Australia dominate as West Indies fight back late on Day 1

World Test champions Australia are miles ahead of West Indies in red-ball cricket with respect to experience, especially with many players of the visiting side opting to play franchise cricket ahead of Test matches. The Kraigg Brathwaite-led side named three debutants in the playing XI with the hope of starting a ‘new era’ but Australia eventually dominated on Day 1 of the first Test in Adelaide.

Batting first, West Indies kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Kirk McKenzie kept them in the contest as the 23-year-old hit a half-century but he barely got any support from the other batters. Towards the fag end, No. 11 Shamar Joseph made 36 runs off 41 deliveries, which helped the Caribbeans post 188, else it looked difficult for them to cross the 150-run mark.

Meanwhile, Australia skipper Pat Cummins once again had a remarkable day in the middle. After three back-to-back five-fors against Pakistan in the last series, the ace pacer picked up four wickets in the first Test against West Indies. He was brilliant with his line and length, which put the visiting team under pressure. Josh Hazlewood too looked sensational as he picked up four as well. The duo demolished their batting unit, giving a chance to Australia to take the lead in the match.

On the other hand, Steven Smith finally opened for Australia in Test cricket. After David Warner announced his retirement from red-ball cricket, Smith put his hands up to take up the role. However, he failed to get going in this first attempt. The 34-year-old got out after scoring 12 runs as Joseph picked up his first wicket. The pacer, who was working as a security guard a year back, even picked up the wicket of Marnus Labuschagne as well. He departed after scoring ten runs as Australia are 59/2 after Day 1. The hosts are trailing by 129 runs and would hope to produce a better performance with the bat on Day 2 in Adelaide.