Cricket legend MS Dhoni and West Indies captain Shai Hope had a conversation that played a key role in Hope’s impressive century during the thrilling four-wicket victory over England in the first ODI. Dhoni’s advice about spending more time at the crease resonated with Hope, who scored an unbeaten 109. According to Hope, Dhoni emphasized that “you always have a lot more time than you think.” Hope’s century was crucial in successfully chasing down England’s total of 325, with seven deliveries remaining.
NEW DELHI: Cricket legend MS Dhoni influenced West Indies captain Shai Hope in a conversation, and Shai credits the former Indian captain for his excellent century. This century played a crucial role in the West Indies’ exciting four-wicket win over England in the first ODI.
Hope, who guided the Caribbean side to their highest ODI run chase against England with an unbeaten score of 109, shared insights from his conversation with Dhoni about spending time at the crease.
Hope recalled Dhoni’s advice, stating, “A very, very famous person, MS Dhoni – we chatted a while ago, and he said, ‘You always have a lot more time than you think.’ That’s something that has stayed with me over the years I’ve been playing ODI cricket.”
The West Indies skipper’s century played a crucial role in chasing down England’s total of 325, with seven deliveries remaining. Hope’s innings, marked by seven sixes, demonstrated his ability to control the game and follow the advice given by Dhoni.
Hope also commended all-rounder Romario Shepherd for his outstanding contribution in the match, saying, “He was amazing. He is one of those guys you can depend on, and he has continued to show his worth at this level.”
Reflecting on the overall performance, Hope acknowledged England’s strong start but emphasized the need for West Indies to enhance their bowling in the initial phase. He stressed the importance of consistent performances to be recognized as the best team globally.
Hope commented, “Their openers played well, and we need to try to start a bit better in the next game. We also had a few dropped catches. If you want to be the best team in the world, you also have to start playing like the best team in the world.”
The West Indies skipper praised the team’s performance, especially highlighting the responsibility shown by the openers. He said, “It’s great to see the openers taking charge; they’re both excellent players. Now, let’s figure out how we can keep up these performances.”
Hope received the ‘Player of the Match’ award for his remarkable century, and the West Indies currently hold a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
