Kemar Roach is set to receive a special tribute from Cricket West Indies during the home series against New Zealand, in recognition of his 300th Test wicket.
The 38-year-old reached the mark in Antigua, where he took 4 for 51 in Sri Lanka’s second innings. That spell helped the West Indies to a crushing win by an innings and 217 runs.
Joining the greats
With the milestone, Roach became only the fifth West Indian bowler to pass 300 Test wickets. He now stands alongside Courtney Walsh, Curtly Ambrose, Malcolm Marshall and Lance Gibbs. He is also just the second Barbadian to reach the figure.
Cricket West Indies president Dr Kishore Shallow called Roach an outstanding ambassador for Caribbean cricket. He pointed to the bowler’s commitment and consistency over close to two decades in maroon, and said his record had earned him a place among the game’s greats. Shallow added that Roach continues to inspire the region’s young fast bowlers.
A career in numbers
Roach made his Test debut in 2009. He has since played 89 Tests and taken his 300 wickets at an average of 26.83, including 12 five-wicket hauls.
His best figures of 6 for 48 came against Bangladesh in only his second Test. The planned tribute is intended to celebrate one of the finest fast bowlers the West Indies have produced and to mark his lasting contribution to the game.
