NEW DELHI: Sherfane Rutherford‘s outstanding debut century guided the West Indies to a five-wicket victory against Bangladesh in the opening one-day international at Warner Park on Sunday.
In his 10th ODI appearance, Rutherford’s spectacular innings of 113 from 80 deliveries, featuring seven fours and eight sixes, brought West Indies close to achieving the ground’s highest successful chase.
The 26-year-old entered at 94-3 as West Indies pursued Bangladesh’s total of 294-6 from their allocated 50 overs.
He formed a crucial 99-run partnership for the fourth wicket with skipper Shai Hope, who contributed 86 runs from 88 balls, before being caught by Jaker Ali at midwicket off Mehidy Hasan Miraz’s bowling.
Rutherford then collaborated with Justin Greaves (41 not out) in a 95-run stand for the sixth wicket, steering West Indies towards victory.
“I think he’s really improved his batting,” said Hope of his match-winner.
“We ask for consistency, we always speak about it, and he’s showing that. He strikes the ball really well and the hard work is paying off in the middle. He was disappointed not to finish the game.”
Bangladesh, having opted to bat first, established a solid foundation through Tanzid Hasan (60) and captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz (74).
Mahmudullah remained unbeaten on 50, whilst Jaker Ali (48) contributed to a 96-run partnership for the sixth wicket, but their efforts proved insufficient against Rutherford’s brilliance.
