West Indies captain Shai Hope has lightheartedly joked that his impressive run of form in India is causing a logistical headache. After securing his third Player of the Match award during the ongoing tour, the skipper admitted he is worried about the mounting excess baggage fees he might face on the flight home.
His latest accolade followed a spectacular unbeaten 102 in the fourth Twenty20 International (T20I) in Hyderabad on Wednesday, which paved the way for a 24-run victory and leveled the series. This century adds to his earlier exploits, including a hundred in the second T20I in Ranchi and two additional centuries during the preceding One-Day International leg of the tour.
Reflecting on his collection of awards, Hope quipped, “To be honest, they are a bit heavy, and we have got to look at the luggage weight. I think we are going to have some problems going back home.” According to and while he was pleased with his performances, he, He was struggling to fit his awards in his luggage.
The captain emphasized that establishing a solid foundation was pivotal to the team’s success in Hyderabad. “We got a 50-plus opening partnership,” he noted. “It was good for us to start the innings, and then obviously we got that foundation, which allows you to express yourself more in the middle period and provide the team with the best finish possible.” Hope blasted nine sixes during his 50-ball innings, an effort that earned praise from opposing players. India opener Sanju Samson remarked, “We need to respect what he has been doing. He has been playing some really good cricketing shots, not taking that much risk, and respecting the bowlers as well.” Hope clobbered nine sixes in his 50-ball knock and drew the admiration of his opponents.
Hope now prepares to potentially add to his luggage count during Saturday’s series decider in Bengaluru. Following this tour, the West Indies are scheduled to travel to Bangladesh for a two-Test series starting later this month. For the upcoming contests, the hosts will likely breathe a sigh of relief as Hope is slated to be rested ahead of the ODI World Cup qualifiers set for February.
