West Indies march into Super 8s, but Hope wants more batting impetus

Batting first after losing the toss, West Indies posted 165/6 in 20 overs, led by captain Shai Hope, who struck a fluent 75. The total proved more than enough as fast bowler Shamar Joseph starred with four wickets to bowl Italy out for 123 in 18 overs.

Reflecting on the first innings, Hope felt his side could have pushed harder with the bat despite putting up a competitive score.

"I thought that the pitch was pretty decent. I thought we should have got a bit more on the board, especially looking at how the other wickets played, especially in the first couple of overs. I also said before, it's a bit different when you've got a few up from there. And in that situation there, I just felt as though we could have put a bit more impetus into the innings, especially with the field," Hope said.

West Indies lost a couple of early wickets but were steadied by Hope's authoritative knock, before late contributions from Rutherford and Forde ensured a defendable total. However, the skipper stressed the importance of being more forceful in similar situations going forward.

"We've got to ensure that if we have to face that situation again, that we're going to play the best to be a bit more forceful. But when crunch time comes, let's ensure that you capitalise on those deliveries," he said.

Defending the target, the West Indies bowlers kept Italy under pressure throughout the chase, striking regularly to prevent partnerships from developing. Hope credited the bowling unit's growing confidence and consistency.

"They're very good. It's just executing really well, not just in this tournament, but even from a few series ago. We're just taking the strides where we need to. I just feel as though the confidence and clarity that we're finding in our bowlers gives us a lot more, I guess, clearer execution," he said.

With the two-time champions finishing the group stage with a perfect record, Hope emphasised the need to stay grounded and focused on the present.

"I always look at the present, you know, those things that we pass. Yes, we've got to look at it and use those experiences to gain that momentum that we're looking for. But again, this is T20 play. You've got to bring your best, your best on your game in a tournament, especially like this, the cricket World Cup," he said.

As the West Indies head into the Super 8s unbeaten, Hope said the team would continue to take things one game at a time. "So, as much depth as we have, we've got to keep finishing. Four and four is a result; you want to be the next stage again. So let's just take it one day at a time. Let's see if he goes through," he concluded.

West Indies will now head to Mumbai, where they will play their first Super 8 match against Zimbabwe at the Wankhede Stadium on Monday.

- IANS