West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite revealed the source of their inspiration after securing a historic victory at the Gabba against Australia today (January 28).

West Indies defeated Australia by eight runs in the second Test of the series in Brisbane today (January 28), making it their first Test victory in the country since 1997.

Led by Shamar Joseph’s heroics, the West Indies were able to defend 216. Joseph, playing with a toe injury he suffered while batting in the third innings of the game, finished with figures of 7-68, having taken a wicket during Australia’s first innings as well.

Speaking at the presentation ceremony after the game, West Indies captain Brathwaite said that he was proud of his team and that this was just the beginning of their journey. He also revealed the words that it was former Australian fast bowler, Rodney Hogg’s words after their defeat in the first Test that had spurred them on.

“We won a Test match in Australia. It does a lot for West Indies cricket. It means a lot,” Brathwaite said. “It’s been a number of years since we’ve won a Test match here. But my message to the group is that this the beginning. It’s amazing we enjoy this, but this has to continue. I’m extremely proud.

“I must say we had two words that inspired us in this Test match. Mr Rodney Hogg said that we were ‘pathetic and hopeless’. So that was our inspiration. We wanted to show the world we’re not pathetic.”

Brathwaite then proceed to show his biceps and said, “And I must ask him, are these muscles big enough for him?”

He also spoke about Joseph and how the toe injury had made his participation uncertain for the fourth day. “I knew I had Shamar probably an hour before play,” Brathwaite said. “The doctor said he got an injection and he’s quite good and then he told me he’s going to do it. I had to back him.

“He’s a superstar and I know he’ll do great things for West Indies in the future. Just his belief. It’s a great example for this team to follow. As I said, this is the beginning. We have to continue and play with heart and keep fighting for West Indies.”

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