About Kemar Roach
Full Name: Kemar Andre Jamal Roach
Born: June 30, 1988 (St. Lucy, Barbados)
Role: Fast Bowler
Batting Style: Right-hand bat
Bowling Style: Right-arm fast
Jersey Number: 24 (West Indies)
Kemar Roach is a seasoned fast bowler who has epitomized resilience, longevity, and mastery in West Indies cricket. Known for his searing pace in his early years and crafty seam bowling in the latter part of his career, Roach has been a central figure in the Caribbean pace attack for over a decade.
Born in the parish of St. Lucy in Barbados, Roach grew up idolizing legends like Curtly Ambrose and Courtney Walsh. Though not particularly tall, he made headlines early in his career for consistently bowling at speeds over 145 km/h. He made his Test debut in 2009 and immediately turned heads during the home series against England.
One of the defining moments of Roach’s early career came during the 2009 tour of Australia, where he rattled Ricky Ponting with hostile pace — a feat few bowlers had managed at the time. Over the years, he evolved from a tearaway fast bowler into a clever, experienced campaigner who relied on swing, control, and movement off the seam.
Despite setbacks due to injuries and form, Roach never gave up. He reinvented his game, returning stronger and becoming one of the leading wicket-takers for the West Indies in Test cricket. He passed the 250 Test wickets milestone — a rare achievement in modern Caribbean cricket.
While primarily a red-ball specialist, Roach has also featured in ODIs and T20Is, especially in the early 2010s. He was part of the 2011 and 2015 World Cup squads and has played in leagues such as the CPL and English County Cricket.
Off the field, Roach is respected for his leadership and calm demeanor. He often mentors younger pacers, passing down the wisdom gathered through his long career. Despite his quiet nature, his competitive fire burns fiercely, especially when representing the maroon jersey.
Kemar Roach’s story is one of perseverance and class. He continues to be a beacon for West Indian fast bowling, proving that discipline, adaptability, and hard work can build a legendary career.