Shallow, Mitchell praise WI’s indomitable spirit
Cricket West Indies President Dr Kishore Shallow has underscored the “indomitable spirit” of the players and applauded captain Kraigg Brathwaite’s “exemplary leadership” during the just-concluded two-Test tour of Australia.
An under-strength West Indies lost the opening game in Adelaide by 10 wickets, but hit back strongly to win the second Test by eight runs in Brisbane to force a 1-1 draw in the series.
The series result halted a worrisome nine consecutive defeats, with the Brisbane victory marking West Indies’ first in Tests Down Under for 27 years.
“This victory is a testament to the indomitable spirit of West Indies cricket. It demonstrates our ability to rise above adversity and justly
be among the world’s cricketing elite,” Shallow said in a statement on the board’s website.
“Captain Kraigg Brathwaite’s exemplary leadership has been
instrumental in guiding our team through challenges and victories alike.
“His resilience, determination, and unwavering dedication to the cause have inspired this young team and every member of our cricketing fraternity.”
West Indies’ resurgence at the Gabba was led by the inspirational fast bowler Shamar Joseph, who wrecked Australia with a spell of seven for 68 on Sunday’s penultimate day.
“The stellar performance of debutant Shamar Joseph is a shining example of the talent and potential within our ranks,” Shallow said.
“His remarkable contribution underscores the depth of talent in West Indies cricket and bodes well for the future of our sport.”
Joseph was adjudged Man of the Match for his effort and named Man of the Series for his 13 wickets at 17 runs apiece.
Meanwhile, former Grenada Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell praised the “prowess and resilience” of the West Indies.
Mitchell, Grenada’s opposition leader and chairman of West Indies Cricket’s Subcommittee, promoting stakeholder engagement, said in a media statement the “victory stands as a testament to the West Indies’ prowess and resilience”.
“As a staunch supporter of West Indies cricket, I am delighted by the team’s spectacular win against Australia,” Mitchell continued.
The 77-year-old, who in the past has championed reforms of West Indies cricket, also expressed his “unwavering commitment to the advancement of sports in Grenada and across the Caribbean region”.
West Indies were written off before arriving Down Under for the two-Test series after picking a 15-man squad comprising seven uncapped players.