West Indies captain Shai Hope revealed that advice from former India captain MS Dhoni helped him remain calm and patient during his match-winning innings in the third ODI against India.
Chasing a target of 352 at New Chandigarh on October 3, West Indies completed a memorable five-wicket victory in 48.2 overs. Hope led the successful chase with an unbeaten 162 off 143 balls, helping West Indies record their highest successful run chase in ODI cricket.
What MS Dhoni Told Shai Hope
Speaking after the match, Hope recalled a conversation he had with Dhoni and revealed the simple advice that stayed with him during the chase.
“You always have more time than you think.”
According to Hope, Dhoni's message encouraged him to avoid becoming overly focused on the final target. Instead, the West Indies captain concentrated on breaking the chase into smaller stages.
The approach helped Hope remain composed as the required run rate changed throughout the innings. He patiently assessed the situation before taking advantage of scoring opportunities later in the chase.
Shai Hope’s Brilliant 162*
Hope produced one of the finest ODI innings of his career, finishing unbeaten on 162 from 143 deliveries.
His innings included 17 fours and three sixes as he anchored West Indies' chase from the top of the order.
Hope also dealt with discomfort around his groin during the innings but continued batting until West Indies reached the target.
His ability to stay at the crease proved decisive as the visitors chased down India's imposing total with 10 balls to spare.
India Post 351/7
India had earlier posted 351/7 after being asked to bat first.
KL Rahul top-scored with an unbeaten 129, while Rohit Sharma contributed 92 and Ruturaj Gaikwad added 57.
Despite India's strong batting performance, West Indies remained in the contest throughout the chase, with Hope providing the stability required to complete the record pursuit.
West Indies Finish ODI Series on a High
The victory gave West Indies a memorable finish to the three-match ODI series.
India had already secured the series 2-1, but West Indies' performance in the third ODI provided a significant boost after they successfully chased down 352.
Hope's unbeaten 162 was the defining performance of the match, while his revelation about Dhoni's advice added another layer to an already memorable innings.
Final Word
Shai Hope's 162* against India was built on patience, composure and calculated aggression.
The West Indies captain credited a simple piece of advice from MS Dhoni for helping him maintain his focus during the demanding chase. By concentrating on the next stage rather than the size of the target, Hope was able to guide his team to a historic five-wicket victory.
Although India won the ODI series 2-1, West Indies ended the contest with a record-breaking chase and one of Hope's most memorable international innings.
