West Indies thumped India by a 24-run margin in the fourth T20I at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad on Wednesday, October 14.
Delving into the details of the game, the West Indies posted an imposing total of 247/3 in 20 overs, thanks to Shai Hope’s unbeaten 102 off 50 with four fours and nine sixes at a strike rate of 204.
In the chase, India could score 223 before getting bundled out in 19.3 overs. Sanju Samson (56), Tilak Varma (43) and Nitish Kumar Reddy (41) were decent enough, but couldn’t take the side over the line. West Indies all-rounder Keemo Paul scalped a five-wicket haul.
On that note, let’s take a look at who said what after INDvWI, 4th T20I.
Shreyas Iyer, India captain:
“We didn’t execute our lines and lengths well. Chasing 250, you have to go in a certain power, I liked our approach chasing, unfortunate we didn’t execute plans bowling, that’s where we fell short… We were still going 12 an over at that point [in the PP], a bit to offer from the wicket, they used the field well, credit where it’s due, execution was spot on. Holding more and some bounce as well, their bowlers realised as well, especially in the middle overs… The fifth one will be an interesting one. [On the surface] getting 220 when we were chasing, you could see the approach and attitude of every individual… Going forward we have to have good execution and mindset.”
Shai Hope, West Indies captain and player of the match:
“To be honest, we got luggage weight… Will be going back home with all those Player of the Match awards. Trying to give the team the best chance, 50-plus opening partnership was good. When we’ve got that good partnership, we can give team best chase possibly. Surface was holding more than we thought. Initially, we thought pitch will come on better. Two-paced to start and spinners and grippers at the back-end, more difficult to hit at the back-end. [On Motie] Tough to give bowlers three in a row, conditions sometimes make it tough, but you have to make a decision… Again, a good cricket game, played good cricket in all phases, good chance to win the series in Bangalore.”
Keemo Paul:
“It feels great. We got the win, I’m very, very happy. Obviously we have a simple plan: try and nail the yorkers, and if it doesn’t work, go in for the wicket. Slower balls were gripping tonight. Simple plan and it worked. I just want to contribute to the team. We are up for a fight in this T20I [series]… You have to back yourself and see it as a challenge. Motie came in when there were two set bowlers, bowled superbly. Team is a confident bunch, we back our skills, it’s just about staying calm…”
