West Indies secured a memorable victory in the final match of their ODI series against India, completing their highest-ever successful run chase in the format. Chasing a daunting target of 352,
The result served as a late consolation for the visitors, who had already conceded the three-match series following losses in the opening two fixtures. Hope’s performance, which included a late-innings surge, ensured the series concluded on a high note for the West Indies despite the challenging conditions and a depleted batting lineup.
Applying the Dhoni Blueprint
Following his Player of the Match display, Hope attributed his composure during the high-pressure chase to a conversation he previously held with former Indian captain
According to Hope, the core of the advice centered on the realization that a batter often has more time than they perceive during a chase. By focusing on the process rather than the final target, Hope was able to break the game down into manageable segments, eventually finding the necessary boundaries in the closing stages of the match.
A Marathon Effort Under Pressure
The scale of the achievement was compounded by the physical toll on the West Indies squad. Hope had kept wickets for the full 50 overs in high humidity before opening the batting. The team also faced personnel issues, with Jewel Andrew reportedly sidelined by a finger injury sustained in the field, and Vitel Lawes unavailable, leaving the batting order effectively a player short.
Hope reached his half-century in 46 balls and brought up his 21st ODI century from 104 deliveries. He accelerated significantly thereafter, scoring 62 runs from his final 39 balls. A crucial partnership of 62 runs off just 29 deliveries with Gudakesh Motie following the dismissal of Keemo Paul in the 41st over proved decisive.
Furthermore, Hope demonstrated tactical awareness regarding India’s slow over rate. Anticipating that the hosts would be forced to bring an extra fielder inside the 30-yard circle for the final four overs, he prepared his approach accordingly. Despite battling groin discomfort from the 30th over onwards, Hope remained at the crease to strike the winning run, capping off a performance that saw India’s total of 351-7—built on KL Rahul’s unbeaten 129 and Rohit Sharma’s 92—surpassed in spectacular fashion.
