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Hazlewood's Fifer, Head's Blitz Push Australia One-Nil Up In West Indies Tests

Soumyajit Dutta

Josh Hazlewood and Travis Head [Source: @tullatravis667/X.com]Josh Hazlewood and Travis Head [Source: @tullatravis667/X.com]

Australia defeated West Indies by 159 runs in the first Test of the 2025 series at Kensington Oval, Barbados, wrapping up the match inside four days to take a 1-0 lead. Despite a few spirited performances from the hosts, the Australian pace attack proved too strong across both innings.

Australia Starts Shaky In First Innings

After winning the toss and opting to bat first, Australia managed just 180 runs in their first innings. Travis Head top-scored with a composed 59, while Usman Khawaja chipped in with 47. However, the West Indies bowling unit, led by Jayden Seales (5/60) and Shamar Joseph (4/46), bowled with discipline and accuracy to dismantle the Australian line-up in 56.5 overs.

The hosts replied with 190 runs, securing a slim 10-run lead. Shai Hope scored 48 while captain Roston Chase added 44. Australia’s pace trio – Mitchell Starc (3/65), Pat Cummins (2/34), and Josh Hazlewood (2/41) – shared the bulk of the wickets. Debutant Beau Webster impressed with 2/20.

Australia Bounce Back with 310 in Second Innings

Australia responded strongly in the second innings, posting 310 to set a target of 301. Alex Carey (65), Beau Webster (63), and Travis Head (61) led the way with crucial contributions in the middle order. Shamar Joseph continued to trouble the batters, picking up five wickets for 87 runs, while Alzarri Joseph claimed two.

West Indies Collapse for 141 chasing 301

Chasing a tough 301-run target, West Indies folded for 141 in just 33.4 overs. Josh Hazlewood delivered a match-winning spell, finishing with 5/43. The top order crumbled early before Shamar Joseph provided late resistance with an entertaining 44 off 22 balls, including four sixes. 

Justin Greaves remained unbeaten on 38 but ran out of partners. Nathan Lyon (2/20) and Mitchell Starc (1/44) supported Hazlewood in closing out the game.