Roach relishes 300-wicket milestone, eyes series sweep

Veteran West Indies fast bowler Kemar Roach reflected on the long road to his 300th Test wicket after helping his side secure a crushing innings-and-317-run victory over Sri Lanka, insisting the team triumph meant more than the individual milestone.
Roach reached the landmark during Sri Lanka’s second innings, becoming just the third West Indian fast bowler to claim 300 Test wickets. Yet, speaking after the match, the 37-year-old was quick to put the team’s success ahead of his personal achievement.
“First and foremost, it’s been a long journey,” Roach said. “I’m happy the guys won the game. That’s the most important thing. I think a win is what we needed to get ourselves on the championship table.”

The experienced seamer also celebrated a memorable occasion for the team’s leadership, congratulating Captain Roston Chase and head Coach Daren Sammy on their first Test victory together.
“So well done to the team, Ross, on his first win as Captain, and Sammy, on his first win as Coach,” he shared.
Roach reserved special praise for team physiotherapist Dennis Byam, revealing the crucial role he played in helping him return from injury in time for the series opener.
“I want to mention Dennis Byam immensely,” Roach expressed. “We’ve had countless conversations over the last couple of weeks. Coming back from injury, a lot of work had to be done to get me out here to play this Test match, and he was phenomenal. I really want to thank Denis Byam a lot.”
Having battled through injuries during a career spanning more than 15 years, Roach described reaching the milestone as the reward for years of perseverance and hard work.
He also expressed his gratitude to supporters who have backed him throughout his international career.
“Thank you very much, everyone. I really appreciate all the people supporting me over the years. I’m glad I made you proud in some way.”
Despite joining one of West Indies cricket’s most exclusive clubs, Roach made it clear that his attention has already shifted to the second and final Test.
The pacer divulged, “For me right now, I just want to bask in the moment, celebrate this Test win, and then let’s go. I want to win this series as well.”
With West Indies holding a 1-0 advantage, Roach and his teammates will have the opportunity to complete a series sweep when the second Test begins on July 3 at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium.