The first ODI of the 2024 Bangladesh tour of West Indies turned into a spectacle of power-hitting and strategic cricket as the Men in Maroon clinched a commanding five-wicket victory against the visitors at Warner Park, Basseterre, St. Kitts.
The game saw standout performances, with Shai Hope’s roof-hitting six in the West Indies innings being one of the highlighting moments of the game.
Bangladesh sets a competitive target
Opting to bat first, Bangladesh posted a competitive 294/6 in their allotted 50 overs. Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Tanzid Hasan anchored the innings, contributing 74 and 60 runs, respectively. Tanzid’s solid knock provided the platform, while Mehidy’s fluent stroke play ensured the visitors finished on a high note.
The West Indies bowlers, led by Romario Shepherd, managed to keep the Bangladeshi batters in check during the middle overs. Shepherd claimed 3 crucial wickets for 51 runs, effectively halting Bangladesh’s momentum when it seemed they were on course for a 300+ total.
Shai Hope hits the ball onto the roof of the stadium
Chasing 295 for victory, West Indies openers departed early. But Sherfane Rutherford hit a scintillating century for the home team. He smashed an unbeaten 113 with the help of 7 fours and 8 sixes, dismantling Bangladesh’s bowling attack.
Also READ: 10 lesser-known facts about West Indies emerging star Justin Greaves
Hope, who partnered with Rutherford for a significant part of the chase, played a vital supporting role with a classy 86 off 98 balls. His knock was punctuated by a spectacular six in the 36th over that left the crowd at Warner Park in awe. Facing Rishad Hossain, Hope stepped out and unleashed a powerful shot straight down the ground, sending the ball soaring onto the roof of the stadium.
Here’s the video:
This Shai Hope 6️⃣ landed on the roof at Warner Park! 🔥#WIvBANonFanCode pic.twitter.com/QSFCIuNiVM
— FanCode (@FanCode) December 9, 2024
West Indies clinch victory in style
Despite Bangladesh’s best efforts to claw back into the game, their bowling attack struggled to contain the West Indies batters. Rishad Hossain, who conceded 49 runs and picked up a single wicket, bore the brunt of the Windies’ aggression. The home side’s batting depth was evident as they chased down the target comfortably in 47.4 overs with five wickets in hand.
Also READ: Fans erupt as Sherfane Rutherford’s maiden ODI ton ends West Indies’ 11-game losing streak against Bangladesh
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