Roach’s 300-Test wicket milestone celebrated

West Indies fast bowler Kemar Roach has been hailed as a student who did not simply excel, but went on to rewrite global history.

The tribute came during a special assembly at his alma mater, The Alexandra School, on Friday, where Roach was honoured for reaching the milestone of 300 Test wickets.

Roach, who is fifth on the West Indies’ all-time list of Test wicket-takers, was guest of honour at the ceremony, which celebrated the achievement of one of the region’s leading fast bowlers.

Since making his Test debut in 2009, Roach has taken 304 wickets at an average of 26.94. He is now just five wickets away from surpassing fellow West Indies legend Lance Gibbs, who sits fourth on the list with 309 Test scalps.

Addressing an audience that included his former principal, Jeff Broome; former coach Peter Vaughn, who is credited with helping to hone his skills; and former West Indies teammate Kirk Edwards, Roach thanked the school for recognising his achievement.

Kemar Roach (left) enjoys a light moment with acting principal of the Alexandra Secondary School Janelle Harte. (Photo Credit: Kurtis Hinds)

“It’s very touching I must say. I walked the pathways of this school again and it brings back great memories seeing some of the mentors that were very instrumental in my career.”

“I really want to thank everyone that’s involved, including the principal for allowing the kids to miss a couple of classes to celebrate with me. It’s really an honour and a privilege to come back to the school.”

According to Acting Alexandra School Principal Janelle Harte, they were proud to gather to  celebrate the remarkable achievements of Roach, who she described as one of the most outstanding fast bowlers produced by the West Indies.

“His achievement of more than 300 Test wickets is a tremendous milestone. But beyond the statistics, it is a story of determination, discipline, resilience, and perseverance.

“Kemar has shown us that the road to excellence is not always easy.There will be challenges, setbacks and moments of doubt, but with hard work, commitment and belief, those challenges can become stepping stones to success,” Harte pointed out.

She described Roach as an inspiring role model for students of the Alexandra school, whose story reminds them that greatness can emerge from humble beginnings.

“We also acknowledge that many people have contributed to Kemar’s development and success. We recognise his family and friends, whose love, sacrifice, encouragement and support provided the foundation upon which his dreams were built.” 

She continued, “We acknowledge the school leaders and educators like Mr Jeff Broomes who guided and encouraged him.The physical education teachers and coaches like Mr Vaughn and Ms Ifill, who helped to develop his sporting ability, discipline, and determination.”

“The legacy that our old scholars have created is entrusted to the present students of the Alexandra School. You are not simply students passing through these halls.You are the next custodians of the Alexandria name and tradition.The achievements of people like Kemar show you what is possible.”

Former Principal Jeff Broomes had fond memories of Roach who he says was not always a model student.

“Now, for all of you who have spent some time in the principal’s office, use Kemar as an example. You can live his dream. He spent so much time in my office and he was not the easiest.

“I suspect that about 100 different times, his mother wanted me to ban him from cricket, and I suspect that I myself another 100, came close to banning him from cricket, but Peter Vaughn has been a virtual star in his life, and you have to thank Peter for everything,” said Broomes.

(KH)