West Indies ODI captain Shai Hope further enshrined his name in the record books during the second match of the three-match series against New Zealand’s national cricket team at McLean Park, Napier. In a rain-shortened affair of 34 overs each, Hope made an unbeaten 109 off 69 deliveries, featuring 13 fours and four sixes as the Caribbean side put up 247/9 in their innings. His heroic effort notwithstanding, New Zealand chased it down for victory by five wickets and to take a 2-0 lead in the series.
What Record did Shai Hope break?
With this century, Shai Hope became the West Indies captain with most centuries in ODIs. He surpassed the legendary Brian Lara, who had scored five tons as skipper. Hope now has six ODI centuries as captain, thus setting a new benchmark for the role-holders of the Caribbean side.
Moreover, this knock marked his 19th ODI century overall, equalling Lara’s career tally in ODIs – another monument to his consistency and longevity in the format.
How Did the Match Between New Zealand & West Indies Unfold?
The 34-over contest finally got underway after a three-hour rain-delay. West Indies gained momentum through Hope’s dominance, especially after they found themselves in trouble early on. His unbeaten knock helped them steady the innings and push the total past 240 in challenging conditions.
New Zealand responded with key spells from the likes of Nathan Smith, with a career-best 4/42, and Kyle Jamieson, who took 3/44. In response, openers for New Zealand laid the foundation by making half-centuries, and the hosts wrapped up the chase with three balls to spare.
Shai Hope Breaks Brian Lara’s ODI Record
Besides the captaincy centuries mark, Hope also became the second-fastest West Indian to reach 6,000 ODI runs, doing so in 142 innings. He overtook Brian Lara, who had achieved it in 155 innings, and he remains behind only Vivian Richards, who had achieved the milestone in 141 innings.
These multiple milestones in one day underscore Hope’s impact, along with the ever-changing role he has played on a team that has struggled to find sustained success over the past few seasons.
What’s Next for Shai Hope and the Series?
The West Indies now go into the third and final ODI under pressure to avoid a series sweep. Hope will carry the burden not just of his own form, but of inspiring those around him.
The question will be whether his individual fireworks can translate into a team win. If he continues in this rich vein, Hope could climb even higher in the all-time West Indian batting lists and add more captaincy records to his name.
