The first Test between Australia and the West Indies in Adelaide followed an inevitable path which confirmed Australia as the world’s best Test team. An experienced, world-class attack once again stamped itself on the match, as it has all summer.

It also continued to highlight the dire state of West Indian cricket and the damage being done to the most traditional form of the sport by the proliferation of Twenty20 leagues around the world. Nothing about what unfolded in Adelaide was a surprise.

A tidy little 11 not out in the second innings as Australia chased down a victory target of 26 must have been a relief for Smith in his first Test as an opener. His first innings failure, falling to impressive debutant Shamar Joseph for 12, means the jury is still out on his move up the order, and will be for some time.

Dropped anchor in Australia’s first innings to try and hold the batting order together. One of Australia’s most valuable players since his blazing return three summers ago, Khawaja provided the foundation for Travis Head to set himself for a match-changing hundred. Sadly, he was forced to retire hurt with one run required for victory after being struck on the jaw by a bouncer.

Always energetic in the field and Australia’s most enthusiastic appealer, Labuschagne was surprised by the pace of first-gamer Shamar Joseph and caught at fine leg hooking in his only innings for 10. It continued a mixed summer, with three scores in the 60s and four of 16 or fewer. At least he got to hit the winning run.

QOSHE - First Test player ratings: The Australian stars who shone and flopped - Malcolm Conn
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First Test player ratings: The Australian stars who shone and flopped

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19.01.2024

The first Test between Australia and the West Indies in Adelaide followed an inevitable path which confirmed Australia as the world’s best Test team. An experienced, world-class attack once again stamped itself on the match, as it has all summer.

It also continued to highlight the dire state of West Indian cricket and the damage being done to the most traditional form of the........

© The Sydney Morning Herald


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