Veteran fast bowler Kemar Roach accomplished a brilliant milestone of 300 Test wickets during his West Indies' dominant innings-and-217-run victory over Sri Lanka in the opening Test at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua. After conceding a massive first-innings deficit of 318 runs, Sri Lanka crumbled under relentless pace bowling and were dismissed for 101 in their second innings. Roach led West Indies' attack, claiming glittering figures of 4-51.

"Thank you very much, everyone. I really appreciate it. All the people supporting me over the years, I'm glad and very proud in some way. But for me right now, I just want to bask in the moment, celebrate this Test win, and then win the series as well," Roach said after the match.

With this achievement, Roach became the fifth West Indies bowler to achieve the feat in the longest format of the game, joining Curtly Ambrose, Courtney Walsh, Malcolm Marshall and Lance Gibbs in registering the 300-wicket mark in Test cricket. Meanwhile, since his return during the tour of New Zealand at the end of 2025, Roach has made the most of his second opportunity.

"First and foremost, it's been a long journey, man. I'm happy the guys won the game; that's the most important thing. I think the win is what we needed to get ourselves on the championship table. So, well done to the team, Roston Chase on his first win as captain. Sammy on his first win as well as coach. But, you know what, it's been a long journey. It took a lot to be here. I want to be here for all these guys, everyone supporting me, especially Denis Byam," he said.

"I want to mention Denis Byam immensely. He's the team physio, and we've had countless conversations for the last couple of weeks. Obviously coming back from injury, a lot of work had to be done to get myself out here to play this Test match. He was phenomenal, man. To my family, I know my mum is watching, she's proud. My kids, all my friends at home. I know everyone's watching now, just this day today. I want to thank all the Antigua fans for coming out and supporting the team," Roach added.