Josh Hazlewood's Five-Wicket Haul Propels Australia to Victory Over West Indies in First Test

Josh Hazlewood's exceptional bowling performance led Australia to a commanding 159-run victory over the West Indies in the first Test at Kensington Oval, Bridgetown. Hazlewood's figures of 5-43 were instrumental in dismissing the hosts for a mere 141 in 33.4 overs on the third day, leaving two days unplayed.

Australia's second innings recovery to 310 was fueled by half-centuries from Alex Carey, Beau Webster, and Travis Head. The trio helped the team recover from a shaky 65-4 position late on day two.

Shamar Joseph stood out for the West Indies, taking five wickets for 87 runs. He concluded the match with impressive figures of 9-133.

The West Indies' chase faltered early after Mitchell Starc removed Kraigg Brathwaite in the first over.

Hazlewood then delivered a devastating spell, dismissing John Campbell and debutant Brandon King in successive deliveries. He continued his dominance by also claiming the wickets of captain Roston Chase and Keacy Carty.

Pat Cummins further contributed by removing Shai Hope, who had top-scored in the first innings. Marnus Labuschagne's direct hit resulted in a run-out of Alzarri Joseph.

"It was just about hitting the right areas time and time again and just being patient," Hazlewood stated. "There are a few cracks there on a good length and just short of a length which kept the batters guessing about going forward or back with a few skidding through as we saw."

Head and Webster commenced the day aggressively, forging a 102-run partnership for the fifth wicket before Head was dismissed lbw by Shamar Joseph for 61.

The partnership could have been cut short when Greaves dropped a catch at second slip when Head was on 22. This marked the seventh dropped catch by the West Indies in the match.

Despite regular wickets, the Australian batting maintained its aggressive approach after lunch, with Carey top-scoring at 65.

Webster added 63 runs before being caught behind off Shamar Joseph, who bowled with unwavering determination.

Shamar Joseph completed his five-wicket haul by dismissing Starc and Hazlewood, the latter being bowled off an inside edge.

The target proved too challenging for the West Indies on the two-paced surface.

Nathan Lyon sealed the victory by dismissing Shamar Joseph, who contributed an entertaining 44 off 22 balls, and Jayden Seales in consecutive deliveries.

Justin Greaves remained unbeaten on 38 as the West Indies' innings came to a close.

West Indies' struggles with slip catching were evident throughout the match, with four catches dropped on day one alone.

The victory was comprehensive for Australia, underpinned by significant contributions from both their batting and bowling departments.