In a thrilling encounter at Kensington Oval in Barbados on Saturday, West Indies captain Shai Hope played the role of the sheet anchor to perfection, guiding his team to a crucial six-wicket victory over India in the second One-Day International of the three-match series.

After the Windies’ bowlers took advantage of the helpful pitch and a lackluster batting display by India, dismissing them for 181 in just 40.5 overs, Hope’s unbeaten 63 and the valuable support from Keacy Carty (48 not out) in an unbroken fifth-wicket partnership of 91 put an end to their nine-match losing streak against India in ODIs, spanning four years.

This victory was a remarkable comeback following the West Indies’ disappointing five-wicket loss in the series opener at the same venue just three days prior, setting the stage for an exciting series decider scheduled for Tuesday at Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad.

Hope and Carty came together at a critical juncture when Shimron Hetmyer fell to Kuldeep Yadav, leaving the home side struggling at 91 for four in the 17th over. Earlier, Shardul Thakur’s three-wicket burst had brought India back into the game after the Windies had a promising 53-run opening stand between Kyle Mayers and Brandon King.

Delighted with his performance, Hope expressed his contentment with contributing to team victories, regardless of personal milestones. He said, “Once I can contribute to team wins, I am happy. Whether I get a 50, whether I get a hundred, whether I get a double-hundred, as long as we win, I am happy.” He also praised his partnership with Carty, noting that they had to work hard for every run against India’s formidable bowling attack.

In the first innings, left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie and seamer Romario Shepherd wreaked havoc, claiming three wickets each, as India, who rested regular captain Rohit Sharma and star batsman Virat Kohli, struggled after an opening partnership of 90 between Ishan Kishan and Shubman Gill. The interruptions due to seasonal showers further hampered India’s efforts to build momentum in the middle and lower order.

While the loss was disappointing for India, stand-in captain Hardik Pandya remained positive, emphasizing that the upcoming decider presented an opportunity for the team to show their character and bounce back. He praised some good individual performances and expressed the team’s eagerness to give their best in the final match.

With all to play for in the series decider, cricket fans eagerly await the thrilling conclusion to this intense contest between the West Indies and India.