Windies hero commits to Test cricket despite T20 money

Pace rookie Shamar Joseph says he will pursue his “dream” to play Test cricket for the West Indies over Twenty20 after bowling his side to their first victory in Australia for 27 years.

Joseph, who claimed a remarkable 7/68 in the West Indies’ eight-run victory despite suffering what appeared to be a serious toe injury on Saturday night, claims no amount of money from Twenty20 leagues will stop him from playing Test cricket.

Australia were bowled out for 207 midway through the fourth day in Brisbane on Sunday, levelling the series at 1-1, with newly deployed opening batsman Steve Smith carrying his bat to be unbeaten on 91.

“I’m not afraid to say this,” Joseph said. “There will be times when T20 cricket might come around. Test cricket will be there. And I will say this live. I will always be available to play for the West Indies, no matter how much money it takes or come towards me. So I will always be here to play Test cricket.”

Former West Indian captain Brian Lara applauded from the back of the press conference he was filming on his phone with one hand while holding two bottles of champagne with the other. Former West Indian players turned commentators Lara, Ian Bishop and Carl Hooper were in tears after Joseph bowled the team to victory.

Joseph was one of four debutants who played for the West Indies across the two Tests, with seven missing from the squad who toured Australia last year.

Shamar Joseph says he will always be available to play Test cricket for the Windies.Credit: Getty

West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite said the shock victory “means everything.”

“Playing in Australia where we haven’t won in a long time with this young group, with so many uncapped players, is nothing but amazing and special,” Brathwaite said.