Shamar Joseph reproduces Gabba form as Australia’s top order stutters

Bridgetown: Australia’s tour of the West Indies has started in shaky fashion after a top-order collapse and a sensational spell from local hero Shamar Joseph on day one of the first Test in Barbados.

After winning the toss and electing to bat on a favourable pitch at Kensington Oval, Australia were bowled out for 180 in just 56.5 overs – their lowest first innings total against the West Indies in a Test since 1995.

Last year, Joseph spearheaded the West Indies to their first win on Australian soil in 27 years.

On a warm Wednesday in the Caribbean, Joseph was back to his destructive best, removing young gun Sam Konstas (3), new No.3 Cameron Green (3), all-rounder Beau Webster (11) and then opener Usman Khawaja (47) in a superb display of fast-bowling in front of his home fans.

Joseph also thought he had Head caught behind to secure a five-wicket haul – he punched the air in delight – but the third umpire deemed the ball did not carry. The Guyanese paceman finished with impressive figures of 4-46 off 16 overs, while opening bowling partner Jayden Seales bagged 5-60 after running through Australia tail.

Head top-scored for Australia with 59, while Usman Khawaja (47) and Pat Cummins (28) were the only other batsmen to make more than 11.

Australia’s new World Test Championship cycle began in disastrous fashion as the visitors slumped to 3-22 in the 16th over in front of hundreds of travelling Australian fans enjoying the sights and sounds of the Caribbean.

Konstas’ first opportunity at the top of the order since the Sydney Test in January ended early when he was trapped in front by Joseph for three off 14 balls. It was simply a case of not getting bat on ball as replays showed the ball hitting the top of leg stump.