‘Incredible Courage’: Alzarri Joseph Plays After Mother’s Death

West Indies player Alzarri Joseph’s mother passed away before the game began on Saturday, 2 February.

West Indies’ Alzarri Joseph has been praised for playing the Antigua Test against England on the day his mother passed away.

(Photo: AP)

West Indies’ Alzarri Joseph has been praised for displaying “incredible courage" and playing the Antigua Test against England on the day his mother passed away.

Joseph's mother Sharon died on Saturday, 2 February, before play began, but the cricketer did not leave the game.

Alzarri bowled on Saturday, taking 2-12 off seven overs, including England Captain Joe Root for the second time in the match. Joseph also took a catch.

"Alzarri's mum passed away, so we rallied around each other, we wanted to do it for her," West Indies Captain Jason Holder said. "For Alzarri to be involved, credit to him and his family."

Cricketers from both the teams came out wearing black bands in memory of Joseph’s mother.

Former England Captain Michael Vaughan said it was “remarkable” and “extraordinary that the 22-year-old played the match on the day he lost his mother.

Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh also offered condolences to Joseph and his family.

English journalist Piers Morgan, too, hailed Joseph’s commitment to the game.