West Indies produced a batting masterclass to post a formidable 247/3 in their 20 overs against India in the fourth T20 International at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad on Wednesday.
The tourists were powered by a scintillating unbeaten 102 from Shai Hope, who anchored the innings with a breathtaking 100 off just 50 deliveries.
After winning the toss and opting to bat, West Indies maintained an aggressive approach throughout the innings. Hope combined composure with power, finding boundaries at regular intervals and accelerating in the death overs. He reached his century in style during the final over, capping off one of the finest T20 knocks by a West Indies batter against India.
The visitors received crucial support from Shimron Hetmyer, who smashed 33 runs from only 12 balls, and Rovman Powell, who contributed a brisk 24 off 17 deliveries before departing. Their aggressive stroke play ensured that the momentum never shifted in India’s favor.
In the closing stages, Sherfane Rutherford unleashed a powerful assault on the Indian bowlers, helping West Indies surge past the 240-run mark. The tourists plundered runs in the final overs, including a costly 22-run 17th over and a 19-run final over, placing immense pressure on the hosts.
India’s bowlers struggled to contain the West Indies batting lineup. Axar Patel, Prince Yadav, and Arshdeep Singh picked up one wicket each, but the attack lacked answers to the relentless Caribbean onslaught.
With 248 runs required for victory, India now face a daunting chase in what promises to be a thrilling second innings. West Indies hold the upper hand after a dominant batting display, while the hosts will need something special with the bat to stay alive in the contest.
