Roach Reaches 300-Wicket Milestone
Kemar Roach reached the landmark of 300 Test wickets as the West Indies demolished Sri Lanka by an innings and 217 runs on the fourth day of the first Test at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua on Sunday. The 37-year-old fast bowler led the attack, taking four for 51 in the second innings to bowl out the visitors for 101 after they had trailed by 318 runs on first innings.
Comeback from Injury
Roach's international career seemed over a year ago, but he was recalled amid a fast bowlers' injury crisis for the tour of New Zealand at the end of 2025. In his first Test since returning, he dismissed Asitha Fernando to become just the fifth West Indian to claim 300 wickets in the traditional format.
"It's been a long journey," said a relieved Roach, reflecting on his Test debut 17 years earlier. "It took a lot to be here, a lot of people supporting me, especially (physiotherapist) Dennis Byam. It took a lot of effort from him to get me back on the park coming back from injury."
Match Summary
The West Indies bowlers dominated throughout, with Roach supported by Alzarri Joseph and Jayden Seales. Sri Lanka, resuming their second innings, collapsed in the morning session and were all out half an hour after lunch. The win gives the West Indies a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.
Future Uncertain
When asked if the second and final Test, starting on Friday at the same venue, might be his farewell performance, Roach said: "Check me in the morning. Right now, we just want to celebrate this win... and then discussions will be had."
