Hope not lost: Captain Shai urges Windies to finish strong despite series defeat

By Sherdon Cowan (Sportsmax) Though visibly disappointed by their third straight defeat in the five-match T20I series against Australia, West Indies captain Shai Hope remains resolute, as he again chose to highlight the positives and rally his side to finish the series on a high.

Much like it was in Kingston when they batted first and failed to defend a total twice, the hosts again posted a total, this time a competitive 214-4, but they were again frustrated as Australia got to 215-4 in 16.1 overs thanks to Tim David’s devastating 102 off a mere 37 balls. With the series now lost, as they trail 3-0, Hope insists there is still pride, purpose, and plenty to play for in the remaining two matches.

The fourth encounter is scheduled for Saturday at 6:00pm Jamaica time.

“We could certainly take that start from the bat in front, something that we always speak about—starting an innings well, whether we bat or bowl. So it’s great to see the consistency in the power play from the batters. We are certainly putting those bowlers under a little bit more pressure,” Hope noted after the match at Warner Park on Friday.

Indeed, the West Indies’ top-order partnerships have been one of the few bright sparks in what has otherwise been a difficult campaign. But as has been the theme this series, the back end of their innings continues to falter.

“That’s something we need to revisit and have a look at. We’re usually pretty good at the death, so it’s disappointing. We just need to execute better with both bat and ball. It’s been too long now. The bowlers do possess the skill, but if you’re not executing, then we’re wasting our time,” Hope admitted candidly.

Still, Hope is not ready to let the series slip further, as he stressed the symbolic and morale-boosting value of clawing back some pride.

“Well, 3-2 looks way better than 4-1 or 5-0. Every single time you cross that line, we’re trying to make sure we’re representing that badge, representing the people in the West Indies. We know how tough it is, and it’s important for everyone to stay together. We’ve been having a lot of discussions. We know we need to pull our socks up, and we are trying everything to keep ourselves in a great frame of mind, and it’s only two more games that we have to pull, turn things around, and pull things in,” Hope noted.

On a personal note, Hope reached a significant milestone during the match, as his unbeaten 57-ball 102 made him only the second West Indian after Chris Gayle to score a century in all three formats. Still, true to character, he was more focused on the team’s fortunes than his own.

“Yeah, well, it doesn’t really matter right now, to be fair, because we are not getting any wins that we want. You want to contribute to team wins, especially as a leader, as a captain. You want to put your name up there, put yourself in those victories that we always sought after. So yes, I’m happy with the score. But you know me already. I’ll be more pleased if you can win a lot more games,” he declared.

Throughout the series, Hope has been a vocal figure, bringing his teammates together during breaks and trying to keep the belief alive.

“There are a lot of reminders. Sometimes, with all the tactical talk and information flying around, guys forget plans for certain batters. So it’s about keeping everyone tuned in, reminding them we’re still in the game. It’s tough, but you’ve got to make sure we pull in, put ourselves together, keep everyone’s spirits high, and make sure we can come out there and fight hard for the West Indies,” he ended.