BRIDGETOWN, Barbados — Josh Hazlewood delivered a masterclass in seam bowling, claiming five wickets as Australia wrapped up an emphatic 159-run victory against West Indies in the first Test at Kensington Oval in Barbados. The visitors dominated from the outset, showcasing their depth in both batting and bowling to take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.
Hazlewood’s Fiery Spell Seals the Deal
Hazlewood’s figures of 5-35 in the second innings dismantled West Indies’ resistance, as the hosts were bowled out for 168 while chasing an improbable 328 for victory. The right-arm seamer exploited the uneven bounce and movement off the pitch, leaving the Caribbean batters with no answers. "It’s always nice to contribute to a win, especially in conditions that reward disciplined bowling," Hazlewood said post-match.
Australia’s victory was set up by a solid first-innings total of 283, anchored by Usman Khawaja’s patient 71. In reply, West Indies crumbled for 188, with Nathan Lyon (3-25) and Mitchell Starc (2-45) complementing Hazlewood’s early breakthroughs. The visitors then extended their lead with a gritty second-innings 207, thanks to Travis Head’s counterattacking 55.
West Indies’ Batting Woes Continue
Despite flashes of resistance from Kraigg Brathwaite (38) and Alick Athanaze (38), West Indies’ batting lineup faltered under pressure. Their struggles against Australia’s pace trio—Hazlewood, Starc, and Pat Cummins—highlighted familiar issues:
- Inability to handle sustained seam movement
- Lack of partnerships in the middle order
- Over-reliance on individual brilliance
Captain Brathwaite admitted, "We didn’t bat well enough in either innings. Australia’s bowlers were relentless, and we need to find a way to combat that." The hosts’ decision to omit spinner Gudakesh Motie in favor of an all-pace attack backfired, as Lyon’s subtle variations proved decisive.
Key Moments That Defined the Match
Khawaja’s Gritty Knock
Usman Khawaja’s 71 in the first innings was a lesson in patience. On a tricky surface, the left-hander batted for over four hours, weathering a fiery spell from Alzarri Joseph (3-38) to give Australia a competitive total. His partnership with Cameron Green (39) steadied the innings after early losses.
Hazlewood’s Unplayable Spell
Hazlewood’s second-morning burst on Day 3 broke the game open. He removed Brathwaite and Athanaze in quick succession, both caught behind, before cleaning up the tail. "He just keeps hitting that perfect length," praised Cummins. "When he’s in that rhythm, he’s as good as anyone."
Head’s Counterattack
Travis Head’s 55 off 79 balls in the second innings shifted momentum back to Australia after a shaky start. His aggressive approach against Shamar Joseph (2-53) and Kemar Roach (1-41) ensured the target stayed beyond West Indies’ reach.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
The second Test begins in Trinidad on June 20, with West Indies under pressure to level the series. Australia, meanwhile, will aim to maintain their dominance. Key areas to watch:
- West Indies’ batting adjustments
- Australia’s middle-order consistency
- Pitch conditions in Port of Spain
Cummins summed it up: "We’ve got the momentum, but we know West Indies will come hard. It’s about staying disciplined." For the hosts, coach Andre Coley emphasized, "We have to learn quickly and show more fight."
With Hazlewood in peak form and West Indies searching for answers, the stage is set for an intriguing finale to the series. Australia’s depth and experience ultimately proved too much in Barbados, but cricket fans will hope for a tighter contest in Trinidad.