Warner Park, Basseterre Dec 09, (V7N) – In an electrifying start to their ODI series, West Indies claimed a remarkable five-wicket victory over Bangladesh, chasing down 294 runs with 14 balls to spare. Sherfane Rutherford's maiden century headlined a historic night for the hosts, marking their highest-ever successful chase at Warner Park.

Bangladesh Sets the Stage

Opting to bat first, Bangladesh made a steady start despite losing Soumya Sarkar (19) and Litton Das (2) early in the powerplay. Tanzid Hasan (60 off 60) and captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz (74 off 101) combined to rebuild the innings with a 79-run partnership. Tanzid's fearless approach, which included three sixes, injected much-needed momentum before falling to Alzarri Joseph.

Miraz anchored the middle overs with his calculated play, stitching another valuable stand of 50 runs with Afif Hossain (28 off 29). However, the skipper’s dismissal while attempting an ambitious shot left Bangladesh at 198/5 in the 38th over.

The visitors were rescued by a late surge from Mahmudullah (50* off 43) and Jaker Ali (48 off 40), who added 96 runs for the sixth wicket. Their fireworks propelled Bangladesh to 294/6 at the end of 50 overs.

Romario Shepherd shone with the ball for West Indies, finishing with figures of 3/51, while Alzarri Joseph contributed two crucial wickets.

A Shaky Start for West Indies

In pursuit of a challenging target, West Indies stumbled early, losing Brandon King (9) and Evin Lewis (16) within the first 10 overs. At 27/2, the hosts faced mounting pressure as Bangladesh bowlers dominated the opening exchanges.

Enter Shai Hope. The West Indies skipper, fresh off a string of consistent performances, began crafting a recovery. Partnering with Keacy Carty (21), Hope stabilized the innings with a 67-run stand. Carty’s departure in the 22nd over left Hope to shoulder the burden, and he did so with aplomb, anchoring the chase while keeping the run rate in check.

Rutherford’s Heroics

The game’s turning point arrived when Sherfane Rutherford joined Hope at 94/3. The dynamic left-hander faced a barrage of short-pitched deliveries, even taking blows to the helmet. But instead of retreating, Rutherford unleashed a breathtaking display of power and precision.

Despite a cut on his chin that required medical attention, Rutherford shifted gears, slamming boundaries at will. His partnership with Hope flourished past 100 runs, putting West Indies within striking distance.

Hope fell for a well-crafted 86 off 88, but Rutherford continued the assault. He reached his maiden ODI century off just 77 balls, smashing seven fours and six sixes.

With the finish line in sight, Rutherford fell for 113, but Justin Greaves (41* off 31) ensured there were no further hiccups. Greaves’ calm finishing touch saw West Indies over the line in the 48th over, ending an 11-game losing streak in style.

Post-Match Reflections

West Indies captain Shai Hope praised his team’s resilience. "We spoke about turning things around, and today the team delivered. Rutherford's innings was extraordinary, and it's great to see the hard work paying off."

For Bangladesh, it was a tough day on the field. Skipper Mehidy Hasan Miraz acknowledged the shortcomings. "294 was a defendable score, but we struggled in the middle overs. Credit to Rutherford and Hope for their partnership. We need to regroup and focus on the next game."

Rutherford, named Player of the Match, credited his preparation. "I’ve been working on staying disciplined and keeping intent. Today was about staying calm under pressure, and it feels great to contribute to a win."

The win gives West Indies a 1-0 lead in the series and a much-needed boost of confidence. Bangladesh, on the other hand, will be looking to bounce back as they aim to improve both with the bat and ball.

END/WSP/RH