By Kurtis Hinds
Kemar Roach took 4 for 51, including a historic 300th test wicket, as West Indies defeated Sri Lanka by an innings and 217 runs during the first test at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, which ended on Sunday in Antigua.
He’s only the fifth West Indian bowler to achieve the milestone.
Courtney Walsh leads the list with 519 wickets ahead of Sir Curtley Ambrose on 405, Malcolm Marshall on 376 and Lance Gibbs with 309.
It was also the first test win for West Indies in the new test championship cycle and the first victory for Roston Chase as captain.
Resuming the day at 15 for 1 in reply to West Indies mammoth first innings total of 626 for 9 declared, Sri Lanka lost wickets consistently to be all out for 101.
In addition to the efforts of Roach, Jayden Seales took 3 for 14, Shamar Joseph 2 for 19 and Alazarri Joseph 1 for 11, as Dinesh Chandimal top scored for Sri Lanka with 43.
Roach reflected on his historic achievement following the game and says winning the match was the most important achievement.
“So well done to the team, Roston Chase with his first win as captain, Sammy for his first win as coach. I would not be here without all these guys and everyone supporting me.
“To my family, I know my mom is watching, to my kids, all my friends at home I know everyone is watching, I also want to thank all the Antiguan fans for coming out and supporting the team,” Roach said.
When pressed about his future plans, Roach was non-committal.
“Check me in the morning, check me in the morning. Right now, I just want to celebrate this win, and then discussions will be had,” he revealed.
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