West Indies fast bowler Shamar Joseph has been ruled out of the International League T20 (ILT20) with Dubai Capitals due to a toe injury sustained during the Gabba Test against Australia. Despite scans revealing no fracture after being struck on the boot by a Mitchell Starc yorker, Joseph battled through pain on the fourth day to produce a remarkable spell, claiming 7 for 68 to lead West Indies to a historic eight-run win – their first victory in Australia since 1997.
Initially not expected to play due to the injury, Joseph, after receiving painkillers from the team physio, delivered an exceptional performance. He bowled unchanged, reaching speeds of nearly 150kph, and expressed his determination to continue until the last wicket fell. His heroics earned him widespread acclaim and attention, both in the media and from cricket fans across the Caribbean.
Joseph, who had signed with Dubai Capitals before the Australia tour, was set to join them directly from the Test series. However, he will now return home to recover before heading to the Pakistan Super League (PSL), where he has secured a deal with Peshawar Zalmi. Despite his impressive start to his career and the likely interest from various T20 leagues worldwide, Joseph has reiterated his commitment to always be available for Test cricket with the West Indies.
While Joseph’s absence from the ILT20 is a setback for Dubai Capitals, the West Indies selectors will also need to manage his workload carefully, considering his recent performances and the upcoming T20 World Cup in June, to be hosted in the Caribbean and West Indies. His next opportunity in Test cricket will be on the tour of England in July, where West Indies is scheduled to play three Tests.
The ODI series between West Indies and Australia begins in Melbourne on Friday, with Shai Hope leading the West Indies side and Daren Sammy serving as the coach. This will be followed by three T20Is, for which Rovman Powell will take over as captain.
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