Hope: India ODIs a chance at redemption for Windies

West Indies One-Day International captain Shai Hope believes Thursday’s first of three ODIs against India in Kensington Oval, Barbados, is the ideal stage to kick start a maroon revival.

Hope made this declaration at the venue on Wednesday during a pre-match press conference with Caribbean and Indian media.

“It’s an opportunity for us to bounce back. It’s a different format and another opportunity for us to showcase our skills and show the world what we can do. We know the Zimbabwe (World Cup Qualifiers) stint is in the past. There’s certain things we need to address and now is a good start to do so.”

West Indies are without big-hitter Nicholas Pooran and fast bowler Jason Holder, who’ve made themselves unavailable for the series. Guyanese batsman Shimron Hetmyer and Jamaican Oshane Thomas replace the pair.

On Hetmyer’s return to the set-up after almost one year, Hope thinks he will bring much-needed firepower to their batting.

“Any time Shimron’s around we know there’s going to be a lot more depth in the batting department. He can transform any batting lineup and take the attack to the bowlers and can be a real impact player for us; it’s great to see him back.”

Former West Indies and TT fast bowler turned international commentator, Ian Bishop also pressed Hope on their plans when they hit the field on Thursday.

He responded, “Anytime we cross that line the aim is to win we know that we can’t always win but everything we do is geared towards that victory at the end of the day. Our plans we have in place, as long as we execute them, I’m sure that we’re going to get some victory.”

Thursday’s first ODI bowls off at 9.30am.