Australia Crush Depleted West Indies in Adelaide Opener, Josh Hazlewood Picks 9 Wickets, Travis Head Hits Ton
Josh Hazlewood ran riot with nine wickets across the match as world champions Australia thumped a weakened West Indies by 10 wickets inside three days to grab a commanding lead in the two-test series on Friday.
Hazlewood (5-35) tore through the West Indies’ fragile batting order in the second innings, skittling them out for 120, leaving Australia needing only 26 runs to wrap up the contest at the Adelaide Oval.
Openers Usman Khawaja (14*) and Marnus Labuschagne (12*) knocked off the paltry target in a mere 6.4 overs, securing a dominant victory for the hosts.
The win leaves Australia firmly atop the World Test Championship standings and extends their unbeaten streak on home soil to 14 matches.
Australia completely outclassed the West Indies in the challenging Adelaide conditions. While the tourists struggled to adapt, the only glimmer of hope came from debutant Shamar Joseph’s impressive five-wicket haul, hinting at promising talent for the future.
“Great test match, good to have it over in three days,” said a satisfied Australia captain Pat Cummins. “It was a tricky wicket where you were always a nick away from getting out.”
Travis Head, who belted the match’s only century (119) in the first innings, was Player of the Match. Hazlewood’s outstanding bowling display, however, proved the decisive factor.
The depleted West Indies, missing several key players including all-rounders Jason Holder and Kyle Mayers, never truly threatened Australia’s dominance. Their struggles were further compounded by the inexperience of three debutants in their lineup.
Despite the defeat, there was a glimmer of hope for the visitors in the form of fast bowler Shamar Joseph (5-94). The 24-year-old impressed on his test debut, showcasing his all-round abilities with a fiery 36 in the first innings followed by a maiden five-wicket haul.
West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite rued the missed opportunities but acknowledged the value of gaining test experience for his young team.
“Bowlers did well to get Australia out inside 300, but our batters didn’t get going,” Brathwaite admitted. “For the batsmen, it’s about learning how to score and put away the bad ball.”
The two teams head to Brisbane for the second and final test, a pink-ball encounter starting on Thursday. With Australia seeking a series sweep and the West Indies desperate to salvage some pride, the stage is set for another intriguing contest.
