Ranchi, Oct 10, 2026 12:56 ISTWest Indies all-rounder Roston Chase believes that captain Shai Hope remains an underrated cricketer whose ability to block out outside noise and deliver under pressure deserves wider recognition. Hope's unbeaten century against India in Ranchi has brought his credentials in the shortest format back into sharp focus ahead of the upcoming IPL mini-auction in December.

Speaking after the West Indies secured a six-wicket victory in the second T20I, Chase commended Hope for his professionalism and his capacity to remain entirely focused despite recurring questions regarding his scoring rate in T20 cricket. Chase noted that Hope's special skill lies in giving his best for the team even when circumstances appear difficult.

Hope's commanding innings came during a daunting chase of 250 runs, after the visitors had slipped to 58 for the loss of three wickets. He shared a crucial 120-run partnership for the fourth wicket with Sherfane Rutherford, who contributed an explosive 84 from 37 deliveries. Hope ultimately finished unbeaten on 102 off 45 balls, striking nine sixes to guide West Indies to their highest-ever successful run chase in men's T20 internationals, as well as the highest successful chase against India in the format. The triumph also successfully levelled the five-match series at 1-1.

Historically, Hope has faced scrutiny over his pace of scoring, particularly after a 33-ball 32 against India during the T20 World Cup. However, Chase emphasized the extensive physical preparation Hope has undertaken to transform himself into a more powerful striker capable of consistently clearing the boundary rope.

According to Chase, the batter has dedicated significant time to gym work to build strength and has engaged in extensive range-hitting practice to adapt his body for powerful shots. This targeted development has yielded noticeable results over the past couple of years.

Hope's impressive run of form has translated across multiple formats. During the preceding ODI series against India, he amassed 278 runs across three innings, highlighted by a century in Guwahati and an unbeaten 162 that powered West Indies to a successful chase of 352 in the final match. He followed that momentum with a 52-run knock in the opening T20I before delivering his match-winning hundred in Ranchi.

Having last played in the Indian Premier League for the Delhi Capitals in 2024—where he scored 183 runs in nine matches at a strike rate of 150—Hope has since remained out of the tournament despite consistent international performances. Chase expressed satisfaction at seeing his captain succeed, pointing to his meticulous preparation and dedication to ticking every professional box.

With the IPL mini-auction scheduled for December, Hope's recent exploits in Ranchi have considerably strengthened his bid for a return to the franchise-based competition, demonstrating an evolved T20 approach that could attract considerable interest.