Greaves savours maiden ODI ton

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, India (CMC):

West Indies batsman Justin Greaves described his maiden One-Day International (ODI) century as a special moment, particularly against India in front of a packed crowd, but admitted that his side’s total of 295 for seven was not enough in the opening match of the three-game series.

Greaves struck 101 from 108 balls, including 12 fours, and shared an opening stand of 135 in 19.2 overs with John Campbell. Despite the strong foundation, India’s powerful batting line-up comfortably completed the chase to hand West Indies defeat.

“Happy to get the first one out of the way,” Greaves told CWI Media.

“In terms of the innings, I think I started pretty well. Got off to a quick start and then just about kept that tempo throughout the innings.”

Reflecting on the pitch, he said:

“The pitch was pretty good, as you could see from the scores in the game. And it was just about keeping it low-risk. Play proper cricket shots and just try to get through the power play and then just take it from there.”

Greaves credited hard work and discipline for his recent form, particularly in his role at the top of the order in white-ball cricket.

“It’s come down to a lot of hard work and a lot of discipline in terms of going out there, understanding my role as well in terms of opening the batting in white-ball cricket. To bat as long as possible, to bat as deep as possible, and to help the team get those big scores.”

He was candid in his assessment of the team’s total.

“It obviously wasn’t enough because India’s batting line-up is very good. But in terms of us as a group, I think we did some things really well today.

“Again, talking about the start between John Campbell and myself, we slowed a bit, but then I think Amir (Jangoo) played a very good innings, as well as Roston (Chase). But it’s just understanding where we need to be in terms of going into the qualifiers and trying to get that momentum.”

Asked whether his maiden Test or ODI century was more memorable, Greaves did not hesitate.

“First ODI century.”

The reason?

“To be in India, packed house, yeah, always special to play against India.”

The West Indies travelled to Guwahati yesterday evening and will train this afternoon ahead of the second ODI.