In January 2024, the cricket world has seen many thrilling fixtures. Some exciting Test matches were going on. In that month, West Indies registered a historic win at Gabba against Australia. West Indies newcomer Shamar Joseph was the hero of the match because of that unbelievable performance, Joseph has been awarded the ICC Player of the Month Award for January.
Shamar Joseph, ICC Player of the Month Award for January:
Australia faced a setback while the West Indies celebrated a historic achievement. The Gabba, known as Australia’s stronghold, witnessed its second breach in three years as the West Indies clinched a remarkable victory in the thrilling 2nd Test. Despite playing with an injured toe, Shamar Joseph’s remarkable spell led to Australia’s defeat.
Shamar Joseph’s initiation into West Indies cricket marked a stellar debut, particularly in the Test series against Australia. Stepping in for the series, the 24-year-old left an indelible mark, dismissing Steve Smith with his very first ball in international cricket. In Adelaide, he claimed five crucial wickets in the first innings, including prized scalps like Marnus Labuschagne and Cameron Green.
However, his standout moment came in the Brisbane Test, where defending a modest 216, Joseph’s seven-wicket haul in just 11.5 overs paved the way for the West Indies to secure their first win over Australia in 20 consecutive Tests. This victory marked the end of the West Indies’ 27-year wait to triumph over Australia in Test cricket.
It led to a historic victory, securing a 1-1 draw in the series. This extraordinary performance earned him the Player of the Series award, making him the first West Indian to be honored with the ICC Men’s Player of the Month since its inception in January 2021.
Joseph’s Words:
From a remote village in the Caribbean to the ICC awards, Joseph came a long way. After a killer performance against Australia in the Gabba Test, Joseph received his maiden ICC Men’s Player of the Month Award. After receiving this prestigious award, Shamar Joseph talked about his feelings.
He said, “I am extremely delighted to win this award. To get such an award on the world stage feels special. I totally enjoyed every moment of that experience playing for West Indies in Australia, especially the magic of the final day at the Gabba. Taking the wicket to win the match was a dream!”
Further, he said, “It was a truly memorable moment for me, and I just want to continue to work hard and deliver more match-winning performances for the West Indies with the ball; and when required also with the bat.”
Later he added, “I want to say special thanks to the teammates and support staff in Australia who backed me from the start to get the job done. I will be the one receiving the award, but this is also for the team, and all the fans in the West Indies as well.”
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