Australia vs West Indies: Shamar Joseph Rocks Australia on Day 1 at Kensington Oval
Bridgetown, Barbados – June 26, 2025
Australia’s decision to bat first in the opening Test of the Frank Worrell Trophy against the West Indies quickly encountered turbulence at the historic Kensington Oval. Led by a devastating spell from Shamar Joseph and Jayden Seales, the West Indies steamrolled through Australia’s top and middle order on the first day, leaving the visitors in a precarious position.
Toss & Team News: Changes and Context
Australian captain Pat Cummins won the toss and opted to bat—a routine choice at Bridgetown—but the result heavily favored the hosts early on. Australia made two significant changes: veteran Marnus Labuschagne was surprisingly dropped, and Steve Smith sat out due to a finger injury sustained in the recent World Test Championship Final loss to South Africa. In came Sam Konstas and Josh Inglis.
West Indies, led by new captain Roston Chase, announced a fresh-look XI designed to trouble Australia—with pace trio Shamar Joseph, Alzarri Joseph, and Jayden Seales spearheading the attack. Following their upset of Australia at Brisbane earlier this year, hopes are high they can make history on home soil.
Day 1 Unfolds: Collapses and Comebacks
Australia’s innings began shakily: they slumped to 3 wickets for 22 runs early in a dominant morning spell by Shamar Joseph. The young opener Sam Konstas lasted just 14 balls, undone by a clever in-dipper from Shamar, who struck in his third over. Cameron Green joined the departure list after failing to replicate his recent form.
Just when it seemed Australia’s batting was in tatters, Travis Head and Usman Khawaja launched a spirited recovery. Khawaja, reprieved by a dropped catch on 45, and Head added a critical 89 runs, giving Australia some hope. Head raced to a resilient half-century (59*), showing their fighting spirit .
But the momentum swung again after lunch. Shamar Joseph returned to claim three quick wickets, and Jayden Seales contributed with three scalps of his own. Australia found themselves reeling at 8 down for around 143, as their top and middle order unravelled.
By close of play, Australia were 149/8 in 51.3 overs, with tail-enders Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon still at the crease.
