BENGALURU, India – West Indies fast bowler Shamar Joseph has expressed gratitude after taking home the Best Test Bowling Performance and Test Debutant of the Year awards at the 2024 ESPNcricinfo awards.
The 25-year-old shocked the world in January 2024, when he took 7-68 in the second Test in Brisbane to bowl West Indies to a stunning eight-run victory, a first Test win in Australia in 27 years.
In 2024, Joseph captured 29 wickets in eight Tests – inclusive of three five wicket hauls – at an average of 26.76 and an economy rate of 4.16.
On hearing the news on Thursday that he had won the two awards, Joseph took to social media, saying he felt humbled.
“Thank you EspnCricinfo it is a shock and an honour.
“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 @windiescricket 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 my aim is to perform to prove that I can come back 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 extremely honoured to have been awarded along with 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.
CMC
