West Indies finally managed to register their first win in their ongoing tour of Bangladesh thanks to Shai Hope’s blistering knock of 146* that architect the narrow four-wicket victory in the second One Day International tie the three-match series on Tuesday (December 11).

On Tuesday, the touring side registered their first of their Bangladesh tour after having been whitewashed 2-0 in the Test series followed by a loss in their one-day warm-up and the opening ODI.

Chasing 256 for victory, Hope cracked an unbeaten 146 off 144 deliveries as well as added 71 runs with Keemo Paul for the seventh wicket to help the West Indies cross the line with two deliveries to spare at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium to level the three-match ODI series against Bangladesh.

While the right-hander is satisfied with his efforts with the willow, Hope lavished praise on Paul, saying the key was to bat as deep as possible and make sure the victory here.

Hope told reporters during the press conference, “It was just to bat as deep as possible. We know Keemo has very good batting ability. I had full confidence in him. We just tried to rotate as best as possible. We knew the wicket was a bit difficult to come in and strike from ball one so he played a very crucial hand here to go over the line.”

He continued, “It was a bit slow. When the bowlers took some pace off, it was a lot more difficult to get bat on the ball, especially against Fizz [Mustafizur Rahman]. His off-cutters were quite difficult to get away in the crucial stage. The wicket wasn't the best for strokeplay but it was much better than the last game.

It was about pacing the innings. I knew that someone had to bat deep. I got the opportunity to start at the top of the order. I had all 50 overs. Just a bit disappointed for some of the guys in the middle to get out at that stage. The key was to bat as deep as possible and make sure that we win the game.”

Hope signed off by saying, “It has been a long tour of Asia. It is nice to cross the line. The guys have been working really hard, so very pleased to get this win. We should celebrate a bit more because we didn't have much to celebrate in recent times. Just keep believing regardless of what's happening. We are here play cricket, compete and win. It is only a matter of time before we get over the line.”

(With Cricbuzz Inputs)