Australia Clinches Decisive Test Victory Over West Indies

BARBADOS: In a dominant display, Australia defeated the West Indies by 159 runs in the first Test at Bridgetown, wrapping up the match in just three days. Josh Hazlewood’s impressive five-wicket haul spearheaded the Australian bowling attack.

The West Indies, pursuing a target of 301, were dismissed for a mere 141 in the final session. Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon delivered the final blows, securing the victory swiftly.

Lyon’s consecutive strikes nearly at the end of the day ensured Australia didn’t need a fourth day to complete the win.

Despite resistance from Shamar Joseph and Justin Greaves, the Australian bowlers maintained consistent pressure.

Joseph’s edge to slip and Jayden Seales’ catch at short leg sealed the match for Australia.

The match was closely contested at the start of the third day. However, notable performances from Travis Head, Beau Webster, and Alex Carey shifted the momentum in Australia’s favor.

Head, who benefited from a dropped catch, scored half-centuries in both innings and was named Player of the Match.

Carey’s quickfire half-century, which included a six over long-off, bolstered Australia’s total, setting a challenging target.

Earlier, Mitchell Starc provided an early breakthrough by dismissing Kraigg Brathwaite.

Briefly, John Campbell and Keacy Carty showed promise, but Hazlewood’s accuracy triggered a batting collapse.

Campbell’s dismissal while attempting a sweep and Brandon King’s edge to gully, where Cameron Green took a catch, further hampered the West Indies.

Hazlewood then removed Roston Chase and Carty, exploiting inconsistent bounce and movement.

Pat Cummins added to the West Indies’ troubles by bowling Shai Hope.

Marnus Labuschagne contributed with a run-out of Alzarri Joseph, and Hazlewood completed his five-wicket haul by dismissing Jomel Warrican.

Despite Shamar Joseph’s late hitting, Lyon’s final strikes confirmed Australia’s victory.

The West Indies’ fielding woes included seven dropped catches, notably a miss of Travis Head on 21.

Australia now leads the series 1-0 as the teams prepare for the second Test.