In the first ODI between the West Indies and England, the visitors, headed by Jos Buttler, appeared to be gradually winning the match as they found themselves down 220 for 5 at the conclusion of the 40th over during their pursuit of 326. The West Indies needed to score 106 runs in the final ten overs, but they were up against it after losing Sherfane Rutherford and Shimron Hetmyer in rapid succession.
Nevertheless, with seven deliveries remaining, the West Indies managed to reach the mark thanks to a brilliant last over from skipper Shai Hope and new Mumbai Indians signing Romario Shepherd.
The total number of runs that West Indies has chased in the final ten overs is 106, which is second only to Pakistan’s 109 versus Bangladesh at Mirpur in 2014. West Indies stunned the audience at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium with a thrilling victory that broke a nine-year-old record.
Shai Hope, the skipper, was at the centre of it all as he struck 109 to take his side home and win the first ODI by four wickets. During this innings he was able to launch seven sixes and four boundaries. Romario Shepherd, was a fantastic companion to him during an 89-run partnership for the sixth wicket. The all-rounder hammered three sixes and four boundaries in his 29-ball 47.
“He told me that you always have a lot more time” : Shai Hope
Shai Hope recalled his conversation with MS Dhoni and took inspiration from him. He said, “I had a chat with MS Dhoni some time back and he told me that you always have a lot more time at the crease than you think and that stuck with me. The century was in a winning cause and that’s all I play for. Happy that we won.”
The West Indies skipper also credited the opener Alick Athanaze and Romario Shepherd. He said, “Shepherd was amazing. We got the win, started the series on a high and the aim is to repeat it next game. Their openers played really well, we need to try to start a bit better in the next game. Nice to see the openers taking responsibility, they’re both great players. It’s about seeing how we can continue to repeat these performances.”
Fans react as Shai Hope credits MS Dhoni after epic run-chase against England: –
Shai Hope said "I had a chat with MS Dhoni some time back – he told me that you always have to spend more time at the crease than you think and that stuck with me". [After scoring hundred vs England] pic.twitter.com/UqGhHfjgYX
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) December 4, 2023
Thala is Cricket.
— Ankit (@ankit_bhadu_) December 4, 2023
Haa bhai cricket dhoni ki waja se thiki howi ?
— ??? (@13hamdard) December 4, 2023
People give him credit
— CricketWala (@CricketWala786) December 4, 2023
We want Carebian Team Qualify For T20 WC24
— VIKRANT KAUSHIK (@7VIKRANTKAUSHIK) December 4, 2023
Ohh man Thala is responsible for everything including bjp win yesterday???
— Sanatani (Aap for India) ( India for india)?? (@RITESH43678361) December 4, 2023
— Ankur (@ankurumm) December 4, 2023
It is surprising these people don't realise these basic things themselves and still get to play international cricket.
— AJAY (@AJsmilemerchant) December 4, 2023
