Aoba Tanaka 
West Indies fast bowler Shamar Joseph has been forced to withdraw from his ILT20 stint with Dubai Capitals due to a toe injury sustained during the recent Gabba Test against Australia. Although scans revealed no fractures, Joseph faced significant pain on the fourth day of the Test but delivered a memorable performance, claiming 7 wickets for 68 runs to secure West Indies’ historic eight-run win.
Joseph’s exceptional spell at the Gabba showcased his determination as he battled through pain, expressing to his captain Kraigg Brathwaite, “I’m not putting down this ball until the last wicket falls.” Despite his remarkable contribution, the injury has ruled him out of the ILT20 where he had signed with Dubai Capitals before the Australia tour.
Originally expected to join the ILT20 immediately after the Test series, Joseph will now return home to recover and subsequently participate in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), where he was signed as a replacement player by Peshawar Zalmi.
Following his stellar performance in Australia, Joseph is likely to receive offers from various T20 leagues worldwide. However, he reiterated his commitment to West Indies Test cricket, stating, “I will always be here to play Test cricket for the West Indies. I am not afraid to say this live. There will be times when T20 might come around and Test cricket will be there…but I will always be available to play for the West Indies no matter how much money comes towards me.”
West Indies selectors will now need to carefully manage Joseph’s workload and balance the overseas offers he receives. Former West Indies cricketer Ian Bishop emphasized the importance of finding funds to protect fast bowlers like Joseph from burnout due to their crucial role in the team.
Although not initially part of the white-ball leg of the Australia tour, Joseph could be considered for the T20 World Cup in June, hosted in the Caribbean and West Indies. His next opportunity in Test cricket will come during the tour of England in July, where West Indies is scheduled to play three Tests.
The ODI series against Australia begins in Melbourne on Friday, with Shai Hope leading the West Indies team, coached by Daren Sammy. Rovman Powell will take over as captain for the subsequent T20Is.
