West Indies trump India by six wickets to tie ODI series

A 91-run partnership from skipper Shai Hope (63 not out) and Keacy Carty (48 not out) led West Indies to a six-wicket victory over India in the second One-Day International (ODI) at Kensington Oval in Barbados on Saturday.

The victory for the maroon saw them end an over three-year losing streak against the Indians and also tied up the series 1-1, with the final ODI set for Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Tarouba, on Tuesday.

Match-winning spells from Guyanese bowlers Gudakesh Motie (3/36) and Romario Shepherd (3/37), and Antiguan Alzarri Joseph (2/35), proved pivotal, but it must be noted that India rested talismanic, veteran batsmen Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

After winning the toss and choosing to bowl, West Indies put on a spirited performance with the ball and in the field and dismissed the visitors for 181 from 40.5 overs.

India seemed destined to construct a high total as they lost their first wicket, Shubman Gill (34), with 90 runs on the board.

Shepherd, Motie, Yannic Cariah and Jayden Seales looked good and removed the next four batsmen to restrict India to 113/5.

Knocks from Suryakumar Yadav (26) and Shardul Thakur (16) stabilised India’s innings a bit but the maroon bowlers were relentless and had them dismissed for 181.

In reply, the hosts started well with openers Kyle Mayers (36) and Brandon King (15) putting on 53 for the first wicket.

Alick Athanaze (six) failed to fire this time around but Hope continued to show class in this format and led his troops home with 63 from 80 balls. He hit two sixes and two fours.

Hetmyer made nine and Carty, who replaced Rovman Powell for this match, went the distance with his captain, scoring 48 from 65 balls.

Needing four runs to win, Carty searched for a six to get a half-century, but he fell just short and hit a boundary to seal the win.