Sammy hails Hope for ‘special’ match-winning knock

NEW CHANDIGARH, India (CMC):

West Indies head coach Daren Sammy has lauded captain Shai Hope for his exceptional performance in Saturday’s ODI victory over India.

Hope kept wicket for 50 overs and then batted all 48.2 overs on his way to scoring an unbeaten 162 off 143 balls, to lead the visitors to a record run chase of 352 for five at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium.

Speaking after his side completed their highest-ever run chase in an ODI, Sammy spoke highly of Hope, describing his effort as “special”.

“The skipper stepping up is not anything new to him, but to keep 50 overs and then put on your pads and go and play an innings like that was special,” Sammy said.

The head coach said it was yet another example of Hope’s exemplary leadership qualities.

Sammy said while Hope was not necessarily a big talker, his performances on the field spoke volumes about his character.

“He doesn’t really say much, but when he speaks, he’s quite clear as to what he’s expecting from himself and from the group.

“I don’t think he gets enough credit for what he’s done for West Indies, how he’s played, and the commitment he’s given us. Class player, great individual,” Sammy said.

The West Indies head coach also said his team’s performance showed they had the ability and skill to compete with the best teams in the world.

India won the opening two matches by eight wickets to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series, before the Windies produced a record-breaking batting performance to claim the third and final match on Saturday.

Speaking on his team’s showing during a post-match press conference, Sammy said the 10th-ranked West Indies had fought valiantly against the top-ranked ODI side in the world.

“We came here knowing the quality that India has and to measure ourselves against a quality team like that, and we showed that when we do things consistently well for long enough, we could match the number one team in the world.

“So, we’ll take a lot of learning from this, belief as well ... and it was a well-deserved victory,” Sammy said.