Shannon Terry Gabriel, a talented cricketer from the West Indies, has made a name for himself as a formidable fast bowler. Hailing from Trinidad and Tobago, Gabriel has been compared to a young Ian Bishop, a legendary West Indian cricketer.
Gabriel’s journey in the sport began when he was selected as part of the first group of 15 youngsters at the high-performance center launched by the West Indies Cricket Board in 2010. He quickly rose through the ranks and became an integral member of Trinidad and Tobago’s first-class attack. His impressive performance earned him a spot in the Champions League T20 in 2011.
In April 2012, Gabriel etched his name in cricket history by claiming his maiden five-wicket haul against Barbados in the semi-final of the regional four-day competition. His consistent performances caught the attention of the selectors, and he received his Test call-up for the tour of England that same year.
Making his Test debut at Lord’s, Gabriel showcased his potential by taking four wickets. Unfortunately, his debut was marred by a back injury that forced him to return home prematurely. However, Gabriel made a strong comeback in international cricket and became a regular member of the West Indies Test side as a muscular enforcer.
One of Gabriel’s standout performances came during the series against Pakistan in Abu Dhabi in 2016, where he took six wickets. He continued his impressive form in the return series, claiming a remarkable 9 for 92 in Bridgetown, contributing to a series-levelling victory for the West Indies.
Another memorable moment in Gabriel’s career was his exceptional performance against Sri Lanka in Gros Islet in 2018. In that match, he took an impressive 13 wickets, showcasing his skill and versatility as a bowler. Although the game ended in a draw, Gabriel’s contribution was invaluable.
However, Gabriel’s career hasn’t been without its share of controversies. In 2017, during a crucial match against Pakistan in Roseau, he made a questionable decision while batting. With the game and series on the line, Gabriel, who had been patiently supporting his teammate Roston Chase, unexpectedly played a wild shot at a delivery outside off stump and ended up getting bowled, resulting in a loss for the West Indies.
Despite the occasional setback, Gabriel’s talent and potential as a bowler are undeniable. The hard-hitting fast bowler has proven himself time and again, leaving a lasting imprint on the sport. With a strong physique and a fiery bowling style, Gabriel continues to be a valuable asset for the West Indies cricket team.
