Source: Trinidad & Tobago Daily Express
West Indies white-ball captain Shai Hope believes his side’s ability to “negate that spin threat in the middle overs” could prove decisive as they embark on a new three-match One-Day International series against Pakistan today.
“I think it’s a very positive mood and vibe amongst the dressing room, especially after some of the recent results that we’ve had,” Hope said on the eve of the series yesterday. “Despite those being in different formats, the guys are looking forward to this one, especially the core group of ODI guys who we’ve had for the last two years or so. We’ve shown that success in our home conditions, so something that we’re certainly looking forward to, and tomorrow starts another journey, some history that we can create as well.”
That history could see the Windies extend an enviable run on home soil—three straight series wins and a mounting belief that number four is within reach. Yet while recent performances have hinted at the side’s development, Hope is under no illusion that improvement remains the key.
“We’re still trying to stitch that top order—the first ten overs—to get that perfect start,” he admitted. “That’s the progression that we’ve been asking for. We looked at where we fell short, and we analysed the entire team, seeing ways we can improve. And that’s what you want to do as a professional, elite team.”
Statistically, the Windies have topped the rankings since mid-2023 for runs scored in both the middle overs (11–40) and the death overs (41–50).
“We put the work in behind the scenes,” Hope explained, “and we just put it into practice and trusted that process. Over time, the results have been showing a lot more consistently. It’s just important for us to keep learning, keep improving, and one day we may get that perfect number one spot that we’re looking for the ODI team.”
Central to that consistency has been the batting unit.
“We must commend the work that the batters have been doing for the last couple of seasons,” said Hope. “We’re very quick to cry down our own in the Caribbean, so it’s great to highlight good performances: (Sherfane) Rutherford scoring five or six consecutive 50-plus scores; Kacey (Carty) averaging around 50 in ODI cricket; Evin (Lewis) coming back in and showcasing his skill and class; Brandon (King) doing his thing at the top.”
For Hope, it is this “batting synergy as a group” that has provided the stability the side is seeking.
Yet while the batters have carried much of the load, the bowlers are not far behind in the skipper’s estimation.
“Our bowling department—everyone is chipping in, guys are getting better at their skills, understanding what’s required in certain situations. It’s not an overnight fix; it’s something we identified previously in terms of stats, planning and strategies that we need to go into each series.”
Crucially, however, Hope reiterated that it is against spin where the series could pivot.
“They’ll throw a lot of spin at us once again, especially in those middle overs. That’s going to be the deciding factor for us in this series, whether we come out on top or not.”
Off the field, the squad received a bitter-sweet blow when young pacer Matthew Forde was ruled out after picking up an injury in training. Pacer Johan Layne will be his replacement.
The 21-year-old Barbadian is yet to make his debut for the West Indies senior side, having represented the West Indies Under-19s.
“It’s unfortunate for Matthew; he’s been putting a lot of work in behind the scenes, always ready to go,” said Hope as he lamented the setback. “But it’s still providing another opportunity for someone else to deepen that pool and see what they’re capable of at this level. It’s a good opportunity for Johan to come in, learn from the rest of our players here, and showcase his skills as well.”
“There’s a lot to look forward to – from a leadership standpoint and certainly from the guys who have been around for quite some time.” Hope concluded.
Squad:
Shai Hope (Captain), Jewel Andrew, Jediah Blades, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Johan Layne, Justin Greaves, Amir Jangoo, Shamar Joseph, Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd.
