West Indies captain
Hope’s unbeaten 162, compiled from 143 deliveries, was the cornerstone of the chase. His innings, which featured 17 fours and three sixes, saw him surpass Tillakaratne Dilshan’s 17-year-old record for the highest individual score in a successful ODI run chase against India. Furthermore, the knock equalled Chris Gayle’s record for the highest individual score by a West Indies batter in a successful ODI chase.
A clinical chase under pressure
The foundation for the victory was laid early as Hope and John Campbell navigated the initial overs before Campbell fell to Mohammed Siraj. Amir Jangoo then provided vital support, contributing 67 runs in a century-plus partnership that kept the required run rate well within reach. By the 20-over mark, the West Indies had progressed to 148/1, maintaining a steady tempo throughout the middle overs.
The challenge intensified for the captain when he began experiencing groin discomfort. With teammate Jewel Andrew sidelined due to injury, Hope was forced to anchor the innings, enduring a period where he went 44 balls without finding the boundary to move from 87 to 126. However, he accelerated decisively in the final phase, partnering with Gudakesh Motie to dismantle the Indian bowling attack. The pair struck eight boundaries in just 14 deliveries to seal the result.
India had earlier posted a formidable 351/7 after choosing to bat. KL Rahul anchored the innings with an unbeaten 129 off 87 balls, supported by Rohit Sharma’s 92 and Ruturaj Gaikwad’s 57. Despite early setbacks—including the dismissals of Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli, the latter falling for a golden duck to Jayden Seales—India’s middle order had appeared to set a winning platform before Hope’s intervention turned the tide.
