Australia’s captain Pat Cummins, alongside fast-bowling companion Josh Hazlewood, orchestrated a formidable display to dismiss West Indies for 188 in a little over two sessions on the opening day of the Test in Adelaide on Wednesday.
While number three batter Kirk McKenzie managed a resilient 50, and debutant Shamar Joseph contributed 36, the West Indies lineup struggled against the high-quality fast bowling prowess of the reigning world test and 50-overs champions, Australia.
Cummins, leading by example, secured figures of 4-41, while Hazlewood equally impressed with 4-44. ESPNcricinfo reports that the day unfolded as expected, with Hazlewood making crucial breakthroughs in West Indies’ middle order following early inroads by Cummins. However, a late twist in the second session saw Kirk McKenzie offering some resistance with a well-constructed maiden fifty.
The left-hander’s innings was part of an afternoon-session slide against Hazlewood, resulting in West Indies losing 6 for 35. The lower-order pair of Kemar Roach and debutant Shamar Joseph displayed unexpected resistance, adding 44 runs to delay tea. Joseph, despite facing a tough welcome to Test cricket with a helmet-cracking blow from Mitchell Starc, showcased resilience, including mowing Hazlewood for a six over the leg side. The duo even negotiated the extra 30 minutes added to the session, but Joseph’s wicket was eventually claimed by Lyon for 36.
Australia’s performance was highlighted by Hazlewood’s impressive display, reaching his 250th Test wicket when dismissing Alick Athanaze. Cummins, on the other hand, continued his recent prolific form with four more wickets, removing both West Indies’ openers.
The day saw Australia applying early pressure on a well-grassed surface, and Cummins opted to bowl first, making him the second captain since 1992 to do so at Adelaide Oval, which is hosting a day Test this year instead of a pink-ball encounter.
Despite the cool and overcast conditions, Australia’s quicks applied pressure, and early breakthroughs were made by Cummins, including a remarkable catch by Cameron Green in the gully. Hazlewood’s crucial wickets and the collapse of West Indies’ middle order set the stage for Australia’s dominance.
As the toss confirmed Australia’s XI with 700 Test caps compared to West Indies’ 246, the second and final Test is scheduled in Brisbane next week.
