Hanuma Vihari has got his maiden international ton against West Indies on the second day of the second test and helped India post 416 on the board. The Andhra Pradesh born batsman was pretty emotional after getting his century and credited Ishant Sharma as well for the effort.
Earlier, Rishabh Pant was caught on the field for the first ball of the day and however, Vihar got a supporting hand from Ravindra Jadeja for a while in the field. Later, With Ishant Sharma, he scored 112 runs for the eighth wicket against West Indies.
“When I was batting overnight on 42, I didn’t sleep well. All I was thinking about was how to get a big score. Happy that I got a century and credit should go to Ishant. He looked more like a batsman today than me. The way he was going, we kept discussing what the bowler was doing and his experience really helped,” – Vihari said.
“Really happy that I was able to get my first ton. At Lunch, I was on 84, and it took me a while to get to a hundred. Credit to the bowler, they were bowling really well. It was challenging and I am really happy. My dad passed away when I was 12. So I had decided when I get my first international century, I want to dedicate it to him. Today is an emotional day and I hope he’s proud.” – Vihari added.
Further, Vihari has made a total of six Tests away from home so far and has been with 403 runs at an average of over 40. He couldn’t make out his ton in the last match but being patient and determined helped him this time.
“It’s been challenging because all my Tests have been away. I am the sort of person who relishes challenges. Playing away is a tough challenge and I want to do it for my team. I am happy that I am going in the right direction. I knew they will come hard in the first session because that was their best chance to get us out. They did get an early wicket but I just wanted to bat patiently.” – Vihari said.
However, West Indies ended up scoring 87 for 7 against India. It was Jasprit Bumrah who made a hat-trick by picking up six wickets of Windies.
“We bowled brilliantly and Bumrah was exceptional. We have to get them all out as soon as possible. Any opposition will tell that they fear to face Bumrah. We enjoy watching him bowl and I know he has a long career ahead.” – Vihari told.
