Joseph Claims Konstas’ Wicket After Pre-Series Jibe

BRIDGETOWN: Shamar Joseph, the West Indies’ right-arm fast bowler, proved his mettle by dismissing Australian opener Sam Konstas on the first day of their Test match at Kensington Oval on Wednesday.

Joseph, back in the West Indies’ Test squad after missing the Pakistan series, had issued a warning to Konstas before the match.

“Just be careful, that’s all,” Joseph had remarked regarding Konstas, who rejoined Australia’s Test team six months after his debut in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) against India last year.

Former Australian wicketkeeper Ian Healy criticized Joseph’s comments, citing Joseph’s lackluster performance since his impressive showing against Australia in Brisbane last year.

“He’s had a disappointing year since his performance at the Gabba. He had a toe issue and wasn’t sure he could play. Shamar has told Konstas to watch out,” Healy stated. “He needs to improve significantly. You’re not Curtly Ambrose.”

However, Shamar Joseph validated his warning by dismissing Sam Konstas lbw with his tenth delivery.

He further impacted Australia’s batting by getting Cameron Green caught at second slip.

Joseph’s early breakthroughs reduced Australia to 22/3. At the time of reporting, the visitors stood at 123/5 in 44 overs, with Travis Head not out on 52.