West Indies star batter Shai Hope has etched his name into cricketing history, becoming the first player ever to score international centuries against all 12 Test-playing nations across formats. The landmark moment came in Napier on Wednesday, where Hope delivered a sublime unbeaten 109 off just 69 balls in a rain-curtailed second ODI against New Zealand. His innings, decorated with 13 fours and four sixes, powered West Indies to a competitive total despite the reduced overs.
Before Hope’s achievement, the closest milestone belonged to former India captain Rahul Dravid, who was the first cricketer to register Test centuries in all 10 Test-playing countries and against nine Test-playing nations. However, when Dravid retired in 2012, Afghanistan and Ireland had not yet earned Test status—a recognition they eventually received in 2017. Sachin Tendulkar, another legend of the game, also completed Test centuries against nine Test-playing nations.
Hope Equals Brian Lara’s ODI Century Tally
Hope’s knock against the Black Caps carried multiple milestones. With his 19th ODI century, he now stands alongside the legendary Brian Lara for the second-most ODI hundreds by a West Indies batter. Only Chris Gayle, with 25 centuries, sits ahead of him.
Second-Fastest West Indian to 6000 ODI Runs
The 30-year-old also became the second-fastest West Indies player to reach 6,000 runs in ODIs. He achieved the feat in 142 innings, just behind the iconic Sir Viv Richards, who reached the milestone in 141 innings back in 1989.
Hope’s current ODI record stands at 6,097 runs in 147 matches at a remarkable average of 50.80. His tally includes 19 centuries and 30 half-centuries—an exceptional record for a modern white-ball batter.
Match Summary: New Zealand Seal Series 2–0
Despite Hope’s heroics, New Zealand emerged victorious in the second ODI. His 109* helped West Indies post 247/9 in 34 overs after the hosts chose to field first. Kiwi bowlers Nathan Smith (4/42) and Kyle Jamieson (3/44) delivered impressive spells to restrict the visitors.
In response, New Zealand openers Devon Conway (90 off 84, 13 fours, one six) and Rachin Ravindra (56 off 46, nine boundaries) laid a solid foundation. The chase was completed with authority by Tom Latham (39* off 29) and captain Mitchell Santner (34* off 15), guiding the team to a five-wicket win with three balls to spare.
While West Indies fell short, Hope was rightfully awarded Player of the Match for his exceptional performance. New Zealand now hold an unassailable 2–0 lead in the three-match ODI series.