Shamar Joseph Answers 'Crap' Jibe with Four-Wicket Haul Against Australia

Just days after being dismissed as "crap" by Australian legend Ian Healy, West Indies seamer Shamar Joseph responded emphatically, claiming 4 wickets for 46 runs, including a stunning dismissal, in the first innings of the first Test against Australia.

Shamar Joseph took four wickets in the first innings of the first Test against Australia. (AP)

Healy's pre-match criticism, delivered on SEN radio, targeted Joseph's on-field warning to Sam Konstas during the first Test. Healy questioned Joseph's abilities, saying "OK Shamar, well you've delivered crap all year. So he better improve, that's what I'm saying. 'He's got real trouble. 'You're not Curtly Ambrose, champ,".

However, Joseph let his performance do the talking. On the opening day in Bridgetown, he dismantled the Australian batting lineup, taking four crucial wickets, including that of Konstas, adding a layer of irony to the narrative.

Joseph's impact was immediate. In the fourth over, he trapped Aussie opener Konstas with a ball that struck the batsman's inner thigh in front of middle and off stump. The initial appeal was turned down, but the Windies successfully reviewed the decision.

Replays confirmed the ball was going to hit the leg stump, handing Joseph the first breakthrough. He continued to trouble the Australians, contributing significantly to their dismissal for just 180 runs. Jayden Seales also bowled well, supporting Joseph's efforts.

Despite Joseph's heroics, the West Indies struggled to capitalize, finishing the day at 57/4.

This Test series marks Australia's first visit to the West Indies since 2015.

This isn't the first time Shamar Joseph has troubled the Australian batsmen. In January 2024, during only his second Test, he took six wickets in a remarkable 10-over spell, contributing to Australia's failure to chase down a target of 216. Joseph finished with figures of 7/68, securing an 8-run victory for the visitors at the Gabba – their first win on Australian soil in 27 years.