West Indies’ Shai Hope recalled advice from MS Dhoni after his 83-ball 109 not out in a record chase of 326 at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua. During the first ODI against England, West Indies were 220 for 5 after 40 overs. With England appearing in control, the pressure heightened after the quick dismissals of Shimron Hetmyer and Sherfane Rutherford.
However, Hope and Romario Shepherd turned the game around with a thrilling win. Their partnership of 89 runs for the 6th wicket was pivotal in the historic victory. Hope’s unbeaten 109 off 83 balls, featuring 7 sixes and 4 boundaries, played a significant role. Romario Shepherd’s 29-ball 48 also contributed to the comeback. The West Indies’ chase of 106 runs in the final 10 overs set a new record.
Hope revealed the influence of a conversation with MS Dhoni on his approach. Dhoni’s advice about having more time at the crease resonated with Hope, who expressed his happiness about the century contributing to a winning cause. “The century was in a winning cause, and that’s all I play for. Happy that we won,” he remarked after West Indies’s 4-wicket victory.
Despite Sam Curran’s forgettable bowling, positive contributions came from Harry Brook, Phil Salt, and Curran. Brydon Carse’s unbeaten 31 helped England breach the 300-run mark.
Hope praised Shepherd, openers Alick Athanaze, and Brandon King for their performances and emphasized the importance of replicating such strong performances as West Indies aims to continue its success in the series. England seeks a rebound after a middle-order struggle in this match.