West Indies batter Shai Hope ended a wait of 8 years for a test century on Monday. However, he scored a powerful 103 during India vs West Indies 2nd test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi.
The 31-year-old right-hander batter reached the three-figure mark in 2017 against England at Leeds. Now, he has finally broken his draught after almost 3000 days. However, his composed innings came at an important point, as the West Indies followed on after being dismissed for 248 in response to India’s commanding 518/5 declared.
Historic Partnership with John Campbell
Hope’s innings was created around a brilliant 177-run stand for the third wicket with opener John Campbell. However, Campbell scored his maiden test century with a fluent 115 off 199 balls.
The pair showed immense patience and class against India’s bowling attack, featuring Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Ravindra Jadeja. Moreover, Campbell reached his milestone with a six-over long-on before Jadeja trapped him lbw. Hence, it ended the partnership that had steadied the innings of the West Indies.
The visitors stood at 252/3 at lunch on Day 4. Still, the West Indies was trailing 18 runs but showcasing a much-impressed batting display led by Shai Hope (92 not out) and skipper Roston Chase (23 not out).
A Record-Breaking Feat of Shai Hope
The century of Hope was more than just a personal comeback story. In addition, it was a historic moment for West Indies cricket. This is because he became the first player in the history of the nation to record the most innings (58) between two centuries. Hence, he has surpassed the previous record of 47 innings that Jermaine Blackwood set.
Take a look at the complete list of the most innings between two Test hundreds for West Indies:
- 58 innings – Shai Hope (2017–2025)
- 47 innings – Jermaine Blackwood (2015–2020)
- 46 innings – Chris Gayle (2005–2008)
- 44 innings – Dwayne Bravo (2005–2009)
- 41 innings – Shivnarine Chanderpaul (1998–2002)
This milestone has also marked the first example in 14 years of two Indian batters scoring centuries in the same innings against the India cricket team. Hence, it highlights the revival of the fighting spirit in the Test lineup of the Caribbean team.
Hope’s Resilience Pays Off
The century of India was a masterclass in patience and timing, as he hit 103 runs in 189 balls. Plus, he hit 10 boundaries and 2 sixes. Moreover, he followed Campbell’s lead to rebuild the inning. However, his memorable knock came to an end when Mohammed Siraj bowled him, as Siraj found a gap through his defense.
Despite the dismissal, the inning of Hope stood as a symbol of determination and technical brilliance. Moreover, his effort has ensured that the West Indies avoided an innings defeat. Plus, it has restored pride after the difficult start of the test match.
Looking Ahead
This inning could be the turning point for the West Indies. However, the team has shown an improved resilience under the captaincy of Roston Chase, as players like John Campbell and Shai Hope have led from the front.
On the other hand, this century is more than a normal statistic for Hope personally. It is a story of perseverance, faith, and redemption. So, he has once again proven his mettle on the biggest stage after years of fluctuating forms and criticism.
Cricket fans across the Caribbean and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are celebrating this milestone. Still, one thing is uncertain: the return of Shai Hope to Test form has reignited the fighting spirit of the West Indies. Plus, his performance in New Delhi will be remembered as one of the finest.
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