Former Australian Test players have slammed Pat Cummins and his team – and each other – as the fallout from the shocking loss to the West Indies continues to splinter Australian cricket circles.
Shamar Joseph became an instant Test cricket sensation after overcoming a horribly wounded toe to take a match-winning 7-68 in the West Indies’ dramatic eight-run victory, their first in Australia since 1997.
It was the highest haul by a West Indian bowler at the Gabba, and the 24-year-old, who had only made his Test debut in Adelaide, was named player of the match and series.
The passion was felt by all, with West Indies great Carl Hooper in tears and famous batsman Brian Lara hugging Australian Adam Gilchrist in the Fox Sports commentary box.
A number of former Australian players expressed their admiration for the West Indies’ passion following their victory, with even skipper Pat Cummins tipping his hat despite the stunning loss.
‘They outplayed us, they played beautifully, and I know a lot of the talk was about the debutants, but when you put out an international eleven, you know it’s going to be difficult,’ Cummins said.
They were great. They’ve developed a few superstars that we weren’t aware of prior to the series. As a cricket enthusiast, a part of me enjoyed watching.
However, not everyone was pleased with the West Indies love-in.
Former Test wicketkeeper Ian Healy was particularly irritated by Cummins’ reaction to the defeat, claiming he should not have been pleased with the outcome.
‘You know, I wasn’t very thrilled with Pat Cummins and how he handled it,’ Healy told SENQ’s Pat and Heals.
