During Australia’s second Test match against the West Indies at The Gabba in Brisbane, Alex Carey had a fortunate escape from being dismissed. Day two was the critical moment when Alex Carey, Australia’s final recognized batsman, entered the crease after a batting collapse.
Australia was struggling to keep up with the West Indies pacers, and at 54/5 they were in a dangerous situation. As he approached the crease, Carey scored eight runs off his first ten deliveries, demonstrating promise. But he made an extremely narrow escape that had everyone on pins and needles.
Alex Carey bat and pad had a tight escape as the ball threaded the needle between them when he was facing a delivery from Shamar Joseph, who came around the wicket to the left-handed hitter. Both teams let out a collective gasp when the ball touched the bail. The West Indies players collectively raised their hands, pleading for a catch, but Joseph stepped in and persuaded his colleagues to give up on the call.
The bail spun in its groove – but didn’t fall! 😱#AUSvWI pic.twitter.com/t6XgOibdqr
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 26, 2024
Replays showed the whole drama of the moment: the bail stumbled when it made contact with the ball, but it somehow held on and didn’t move. With the game hanging in the balance, it was a lucky break for both Carey and Australia.
Australia’s hopes hinged on Alex Carey, as the top-order collapsed under the West Indies pacers.
An important element of Australia’s attempt to rally was Carey’s counterattack. The wicketkeeper-batter’s survival after a near-death experience has given Australia’s innings more tenacity as they aim to match the West Indies’ first-inning total. Carey took advantage of the situation and struck for a quick 65 off 49 balls, complete with nine fours and one six, to steadie the Australian batting order.
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