Shai Hope, the West Indies captain, showcased an exceptional batting performance against Pakistan, producing a sensational century that achieved several feats. Hope’s explosive century not only secured a victory for the West Indies, but also saw him surpass AB de Villiers on the list of most ODI centuries by a wicketkeeper-batsman. Furthermore, the records of cricket legends Chris Gayle and MS Dhoni are under threat following Hope’s stunning display.
Hope’s remarkable innings against Pakistan included an unbeaten 120 runs from 94 balls. This innings, played at a strike rate of 127.65, consisted of 5 sixes and 10 fours. This was Hope’s 18th ODI century and his second against Pakistan. Thanks to Hope’s century, the West Indies team scored 294 runs in their 50 overs, making it difficult for Pakistan to chase.
Hope’s Player of the Match performance has allowed him to achieve new heights. With this century, Hope has surpassed AB de Villiers in terms of most ODI centuries by a wicketkeeper. Hope now has 5 ODI centuries as a wicketkeeper, while AB de Villiers has 4. Dhoni holds the world record with 6 centuries. Thus, Hope has a great chance to surpass Dhoni and become the wicketkeeper with the most ODI centuries.
Hope has now become the third West Indian batsman to have the most centuries. He has 18 centuries in 137 innings. This accomplishment has placed him ahead of Desmond Haynes, who has 17 centuries in 237 innings.
Hope has also put the records of Brian Lara and Chris Gayle in jeopardy. Chris Gayle holds the record for most ODI centuries for the West Indies, with 25 centuries in 291 innings. Brian Lara has 19 centuries in 285 innings. Hope, with significantly fewer innings played, is in a strong position to challenge both Gayle and Lara’s records.