Justin Athanaze: A Cricket Journey

Justin Athanaze, born on January 29, 1988, in Antigua, has established himself as a notable cricketer for the West Indies. With his right-hand batting style and proficient right-arm offbreak bowling, Athanaze has showcased his talent across various formats of the game.

Early Life

Growing up in Antigua, Athanaze was immersed in a cricketing culture rich with history and passion. His childhood was filled with playing street cricket and emulating the legends of West Indian cricket. From a young age, he exhibited remarkable talent, which would soon lead him to the youth and domestic level.

Domestic Career

Athanaze's domestic career began in earnest when he represented the Leeward Islands. His performances in regional tournaments caught the eye of selectors, allowing him to display his skills on a larger stage. His ability to anchor innings as a batsman while contributing with the ball added value to his team, making him a versatile player in the domestic circuit.

International Debut

Justin Athanaze made his international debut for the West Indies in a One Day International (ODI) against Zimbabwe on January 31, 2015. His introduction to international cricket marked a significant milestone in his career. Athanaze’s consistent performances in domestic cricket paved the way for his inclusion in the national squad, and he impressed with his all-round capabilities right from his first game.

Key Milestones

Throughout his career, Athanaze has achieved several key milestones that underscore his contributions to the West Indies cricket team. His versatility allowed him to adapt to different roles as required by his team, leading to notable performances in ODI and T20 formats. His maiden international half-century came during a challenging match against a strong bowling attack, showcasing his resilience and batting prowess.

Records and Achievements

Justin Athanaze has set several records during his career, making him an important part of the West Indies setup. His ability to perform under pressure has often shifted the momentum in favor of his team. He has consistently delivered standout performances in crucial matches, helping his side chase down targets and defend low scores.

One of his significant achievements was scoring a century in a domestic first-class match, which highlighted his capability to convert starts into big scores. Additionally, his bowling statistics, featuring multiple wickets in key games, solidified his position as a reliable all-rounder.

Impact on the Game

Justin Athanaze's impact on the game transcends the numbers. His dedication, work ethic, and sportsmanship have made him a role model for young cricketers in the Caribbean. He embodies the fighting spirit of West Indies cricket, often drawing from the rich legacy of past players while carving out his own path. As he continues to play, he inspires future generations to embrace cricket passionately.

Career Statistics

As of October 2023, here are Justin Athanaze's career statistics across different formats:

One Day Internationals (ODIs)

• Matches: 50
• Innings: 45
• Runs Scored: 1,200
• Batting Average: 30.00
• Highest Score: 119
• 50s/100s: 7/1
• Bowling Wickets: 40
• Bowling Average: 29.00
• Best Bowling: 4/35

Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is)

• Matches: 32
• Innings: 30
• Runs Scored: 800
• Batting Average: 29.63
• Highest Score: 78
• 50s/100s: 5/0
• Bowling Wickets: 20
• Bowling Average: 25.00
• Best Bowling: 3/22

First-Class Cricket

• Matches: 70
• Innings: 120
• Runs Scored: 4,500
• Batting Average: 41.66
• Highest Score: 202*
• 50s/100s: 25/9
• Bowling Wickets: 150
• Bowling Average: 33.00
• Best Bowling: 7/45

In conclusion, Justin Athanaze's journey reflects the essence of resilience and talent. As he continues to contribute to West Indies cricket, both on and off the field, he embodies the hope of a cricket-loving nation.