The cricketing world witnessed a memorable debut performance by Xavier Bartlett during the first One Day International (ODI) between Australia and West Indies at the historic Melbourne Cricket Ground. Making his mark with immediate effect, the young Australian pacer showcased his skillful bowling prowess, leaving a lasting impression.

Xavier Bartlett delivers a beauty to get rid of Justin Greaves

In a stunning display of precision and technique, Bartlett claimed his maiden international wicket with just his third delivery. Bowling to West Indies opener Justin Greaves, Bartlett delivered an absolute peach of a delivery, pitching it on a good length and causing the ball to deviate away from the right-handed batter. The delivery clipped the top of off stump, leaving Greaves dismissed for a mere solitary run.

Here is the video:

WHAT A PEACH! 🍑

Xavier Bartlett starts his international career with a ripper! #PlayOfTheDay | #AUSvWI pic.twitter.com/CyfNJyvjzS

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) February 2, 2024

Commentators in praise for Bartlett’s delivery

The brilliance of Bartlett’s delivery didn’t go unnoticed, with commentators lauding the young bowler’s skill and execution. Former England Women’s cricketer Isa Guha remarked on the perfection of the delivery, while former Australian spinner Kerry O’Keeffe drew a comparison to the legendary Don Bradman, emphasizing the quality of Bartlett’s bowling.

“That could not be more perfect,” said Guha said on Fox Cricket.

“Bradman might have nicked that,” said O’Keeffe.

Also READ: AUS vs WI, 2024 – Australia’s best playing XI for the ODI series against West Indies

Bartlett continued to impress

Interestingly, Bartlett came close to securing a second breakthrough later in the same over when he delivered a swinging delivery aimed at Alick Athanaze‘s pads. Despite the potential for a dismissal, the Australian team opted not to request a review. However, upon seeing the Hawkeye replays, it became evident that the decision would likely have been overturned had Captain Smith decided to refer it upstairs.

Nevertheless, the 25-year-old did not have to wait long for another opportunity to dismiss Athanaze. In his subsequent over, Bartlett enticed the left-handed batter into a feathered edge off an outswinger, which was comfortably caught by wicketkeeper Josh Inglis.

Continuing his impressive performance, Bartlett secured his third victim of the match late in the Powerplay. West Indies captain Hope attempted a wild slog, resulting in an edge that was safely caught by Matt Short at first slip, adding to Bartlett’s growing tally of dismissals in his debut ODI.

Also READ: AUS vs WI 2024 – West Indies’ best playing XI for the ODI series against Australia

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