West Indies pacer Kemar Roach found himself in an unintentional moment of humor during the second Test against Australia at the Gabba. After resuming their innings at 288/8 on day 2, the Windies were eventually bowled out for 311. Roach, facing Pat Cummins, aimed to score his ninth run but ended up slipping comically in the middle of the pitch. While trying to complete a quick single, he fell on his backside, providing the Australians an opportunity to run him out.
Partner Kevin Sinclair couldn’t help but smile at the amusing turn of events. Alert Australian fielders, led by Marnus Labuschagne, seized the chance, with Travis Head efficiently removing the bails. Roach’s muggy run-out occurred at 297, and West Indies were eventually bowled out for 311 after Sinclair was dismissed for 50 off 98 balls.
West Indies had notable contributions from Kavem Hodge (71), Joshua Da Silva (79), Kevin Sinclair (50), and Alzarri Joseph (32). Australia’s Mitchell Starc took five wickets, while Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon claimed two each, and Pat Cummins took one.
ALSO READ: “A question mark” – Sanjay Manjrekar on Team India’s batting lineup in Virat Kohli’s absence
Despite the comic run-out, Roach redeemed himself by dismissing Steve Smith in the very first over of Australia’s innings. This early breakthrough gave West Indies an advantage, as they managed to dismiss four Australian wickets for just 24 runs before the tea break.
Oh dear! Kemar Roach ended up on his backside in the middle of the pitch and is run out! #CleanHands | #AUSvWI pic.twitter.com/RY5HolA7Fg
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 26, 2024
Australia, in their first innings, faced early challenges with Roach dismissing Smith, and Alzarri Joseph accounting for Marnus Labuschagne with a stunning catch by Sinclair. Roach continued his impactful spell by dismissing Cameron Green (8) and Travis Head (0), putting the hosts in a challenging position.
As the teams went off for the tea break, Australia trailed by 287 runs with a first-innings score of 311 by West Indies. Roach’s impactful performance not only contributed to early wickets but also brought him closer to the milestone of 300 Test wickets.
ALSO READ: Ben Duckett surprised by Team India’s aggressive approach on Day 1 vs England
Reflecting on his journey, Roach shared advice with young pacer Shamar Joseph, emphasizing the importance of building one’s legacy and understanding personal goals in cricket amidst distractions and attention. In summary, Roach’s eventful day showcased both the lighter and competitive sides of cricket, leaving an indelible mark on the ongoing Test series between West Indies and Australia.
