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Australia completed a dominant 3–0 series sweep over the West Indies in Kingston on Monday, July 14, 2025, thanks to a sensational bowling performance that saw the host side bowled out for just 27 runs in their second innings—the second-lowest total in Test history.
Starc’s Record-Breaking Spell Powers Sweep
- Mitchell Starc, in his 100th Test, produced a blistering spell en route to figures of 6 for 9, including the fastest five-wicket haul in Test history—just 15 deliveries—shattering the previous record of 19 balls.
- Starc also achieved a major career milestone by claiming his 400th Test wicket, becoming the fourth Australian to do so after the likes of Warne, McGrath, and Lyon.
- In the same innings, Scott Boland struck, taking a hat-trick to further devastate the West Indies, becoming just the 10th Australian to achieve the feat.
Collapse of the Windies
- The West Indies innings crumbled in just 14.3 overs, narrowly avoiding equaling the all-time lowest Test total (26) by one run.
- They stumbled to 0–3 early on and lurched to 22–6 by tea before Boland’s hat-trick and Starc’s return sealed the collapse at 27 .
- Captain Roston Chase described the outcome as “quite embarrassing,” reflecting on repeated batting failures plaguing the side.
Match Context & Significance
- Australia chased a target of 204 after posting 225 and 121 in their two innings; they secured a 176-run victory.
- This remarkable bowling display overshadowed Australia’s batting woes and solidified their Frank Worrell Trophy win.
- The collapse underscored Australia’s fast-bowling advantage and highlighted the West Indies’ glaring weaknesses with the bat.
What This Means Going Forward
- Starc’s spell has been hailed as one of Test cricket’s greatest bowling performances, especially given the landmark achievements—fastest five-for and 400+ Test wickets.
- Boland’s return to form with a hat-trick adds depth to Australia’s attack and cements his place in the Test XI.
- Meanwhile, the West Indies must address their chronic batting frailty if they hope to compete at the highest level; this collapse is a stark call to action .
This Test will be remembered as a bowling exhibition—a day when Starc and Boland’s pace onslaught combined to dismantle a side almost entirely. For Australia, it’s a statement of dominance; for the West Indies, it’s a reminder that rebuilding must begin with their fragile top order.
