West Indies fast bowler 25-year-old Shamar Joseph has expressed gratitude after winning the Best Test Bowling Performance and Test Debutant of the Year awards at the 2024 ESPNcricinfo awards.
Joseph stunned the world in January 2024 when he took 7-68 in the second Test in Brisbane to bowl West Indies to an impressive eight-run victory, the first Test win in Australia in 27 years.
In 2024, Joseph captured 29 wickets in 8 Tests, including three five-wicket hauls, with an average of 26.76 and an economy rate of 4.16.
On hearing the news of his accomplishment, Joseph took to social media, saying he felt humbled.
“Thank you, EspnCricinfo. It is a shock and an honor.”
“Last year, I was thinking about how to make a life to support my family. This year, I am working to teach my two boys that life’s journey is about always building, creating new ambitions, and never settling for where you are,” Joseph said.
“I have so many Windies cricket legends to guide me, and I thank them and my coaches for giving me that strength of purpose.”
Reflecting on his performance in Australia, Joseph described it as a “special time” and said he hoped to take more wickets when Australia visits the Caribbean in July for a three-Test series.
“That month in Australia was a very special time for our squad, and my big wish for 2025 is to go back and take plenty more wickets.
“We have a series vs Australia in the Caribbean this July, and I aim to perform to prove that I can return to Australia and give the fans entertainment. Aussies still message me every day,” Joseph revealed.
“I will always be grateful for those fans in Adelaide and the Gabba, who cheered me on even though I’m not Aussie. I want to visit Adelaide or Queensland no matter what.”
Joseph said he was highly honored to have been awarded the same award as some of the top cricketers in the world.
“God first, I represent Guyana, West Indies, and Lucknow Super Giants, and I am blessed to support my family and represent my country on the cricket field. It is amazing to have my name alongside Elyse Perry, [Jasprit] Bumrah, [Pat] Cummins, and Sophie Devine in this ESPN Awards. To be included just makes me work harder. See you in the IPL,” Joseph said.
