Shai Hope keen to improve Test record when West Indies face England

Shai Hope admitted his modest Test record is a source of frustration but the West Indies batsman continues to back himself safe in the knowledge he has the capability to deliver exceptional displays.
Hope averages 27.23 after 31 Tests but he is back in the country where he came of age three years ago, becoming the first batsman to amass hundreds in both innings of a first-class match at Headingley.
The twin tons helped the Windies secure a surprise victory over England but they are an outlier in his Test career, the only times he has passed three figures in the format.

An average of 52.2 after 78 one-day internationals shows Hope is one of the islanders’ best batsmen and the 26-year-old hopes to boost his Test numbers during next month’s three-match series against England.
Hope said over Zoom conference call: “You’re going to be hard on yourself, especially when you know that you can get something done and it’s not really portraying on your stats card.
“My runs and stats aren’t exactly where I want them to be but I’m working towards that.
“I just have to continue believing in myself and back my ability because I know I can get it done. The key is to make sure that I take use of these opportunities and do whatever I can to make the team win.”

The Windies have placed an emphasis in their 25-man squad on fast bowling, with the experience of Kemar Roach, captain Jason Holder and, if fit, Shannon Gabriel dovetailing with the raw talents of youngsters Alzarri Joseph, Chemar Holder and Oshane Thomas.
However, more responsibility will be on the likes of Hope and opener Kraigg Brathwaite after batting duo Darren Bravo and Shimron Hetmyer declined a place in the travelling group.
Hope added: “We’re missing a few key players so it’s very important for us as top-order batters to get those runs on the board, especially in the first part of the game.
“(We have to) make sure we see off the new ball and make it easier for the batters coming down the line. As soon as you get those starts, you’ve got to make sure you capitalise and go big for the side.”
Latest
-
News
England ready to chase down any target India set, says Jonny Bairstow
The tourists established a commanding position, despite Bairstow’s knock of 106.
-
News
England still battling to contain India despite Jonny Bairstow century heroics
Bairstow’s 106 contained 14 boundaries and two sixes, but England still gave up a 132-run lead after being bowled out for 284.
-
News
Jonny Bairstow century heroics for England not enough to keep India at bay
Bairstow made 106 in typically rambunctious style, with 14 boundaries and two sixes.
-
News
In-form Jonny Bairstow leads England charge against India in Edgbaston decider
The Yorkshireman raced to 91 not out as England progressed to 200 for six.
-
News
James Anderson expects England to maintain their aggressive approach
India are in control of Ben Stokes’ team at Edgbaston.
-
News
Stuart Broad delivers costliest Test innings as India take control at Edgbaston
Broad gave up a record 35 runs in the penultimate over of India’s first innings.
-
News
Stuart Broad over costs a Test record 35 runs as India take charge at Edgbaston
The tourists reduced England to 60 for three having made 416 in their first innings.
-
News
Stuart Broad makes history twice on wild morning at Edgbaston
Bowler reached two milestones, one definitely unwanted.
-
News
Test cricket’s most expensive over – a ball-by-ball account
Stuart Broad’s over to Jasprit Bumrah went for 35 – seven more than the previous record.
-
News
New England captain Jos Buttler unable to prevent Lancashire defeat in Blast
The Lightning were defeated by Worcestershire Rapids.