On This Day in 2024: Shamar Joseph inspires West Indies’ iconic win at Gabba

On January 28, 2024, the West Indies cricket team achieved a historic victory against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane, marking their first Test win on Australian soil in 27 years. Central to this triumph was the exceptional performance of 24-year-old fast bowler Shamar Joseph, who delivered a career-best 7 for 68 in the second innings, leading his team to a thrilling eight-run win.

Australia, chasing a target of 216, appeared to be in a strong position at 113 for 2, with Steve Smith and Cameron Green at the crease. However, Joseph’s fiery spell turned the game on its head. He bowled Green for 42, then dismissed Travis Head with a superb yorker, triggering a collapse that saw Australia lose six wickets for just 94 runs. Despite Smith’s resilient unbeaten 91, Joseph’s relentless pace and precision ensured the West Indies clinched a memorable victory.

Joseph’s journey to this pinnacle is as inspiring as his on-field exploits. Hailing from the remote village of Baracara in Guyana, he grew up without access to the internet and practiced cricket using fruit due to limited facilities. He worked as a logger and later as a security guard before his cricketing talent was recognized. His rise from these humble beginnings to becoming a national hero exemplifies determination and passion.

This victory not only ended a long-standing drought for the West Indies in Australia but also highlighted the emergence of a new cricketing talent in Joseph. His performance drew praise from cricketing legends, with Brian Lara hailing him as “a champion” and Curtly Ambrose expressing confidence in his potential. Joseph’s heroics have reignited hope for a resurgence in West Indies cricket, inspiring fans and players alike.

Reflecting on the win, West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite credited the team’s resilience and was particularly proud of Joseph’s contribution. He revealed that former Australian cricketer Rodney Hogg’s criticism, labeling the team as “pathetic and hopeless,” served as motivation for their performance. Brathwaite responded emphatically, stating, “We wanted to show the world we’re not pathetic.”