Twitter Reactions: Shai Hope's sparkling ton takes West Indies to victory in series opener

West Indies cruised to a seven-wicket victory against the Netherlands in the first ODI in Amstelveen thanks to an unbeaten century from Shai Hope. West Indies won the toss and decided to bowl first on a breezy day that saw the game reduced to 45 overs per side due to rain. Netherlands set a target of 247 via the D/L method.

Put in to bat first by West Indies, Netherland’s openers were off to a steady start as they added 63 runs in 12 overs. Vikramjit Singh was impressive with his 47 off 45 deliveries. While several other batters contributed with handy innings, debutant Teja Nidamanuru’s maiden half-century pushed the side’s score to 240/7 in 45 overs, later revised to 247. The 27-year-old India-born allrounder, top-scored for Netherlands with an unbeaten 58 off 51 deliveries as he hit three fours and two sixes during his stay at the crease.

Shai Hope impressed with an unbeaten ton

West Indies made light work of the chase as they got home with 11 deliveries to spare. Opener Shai Hope registered his 11th century for the West Indies in this format as he stitched an 120-run opening partnership with Shamarh Brooks (60 off 67 balls). However, after the impressive start, West Indies stuttered due to the loss of three quick wickets.

Here are the highlights of the match: 

But Shai Hope (119* off 130 balls) was joined by Brandon King (58* off 51 balls) at the crease, and the pair added 116 runs together as they saw their side home quite comfortably in the end. Hope was given the Player of the Match award for his impressive ton. Akeal Hosein was the pick of the bowlers in the first innings as he picked two wickets, conceding just 29 runs in his nine overs.

The second and third ODIs will take place on June 2 and June 4 respectively. West Indies currently sit in the 10th position and outside the direct qualifying quota in the ODI Super League. The Netherlands are last, with just two wins in 11 matches so far.

Meanwhile, let’s look at how Twitter reacted to West Indies’ triumph: