Shimron Hetmyer dominated the Indian bowlers in Chennai, striking a career-best 139 to steer the West Indies to an 8-wicket win in the first ODI, just before the upcoming IPL auction. Despite the challenges of a slow pitch, the visitors chased down 288 runs in 47.5 overs. This victory was anchored by a powerhouse 218-run second-wicket stand between Hetmyer and Shai Hope, who remained unbeaten on 102.
India managed to reach 287 for 8 after being sent in to bat, largely thanks to Shreyas Iyer's 70 (88)—his third fifty in a row—and a strong 71 (69) from Rishabh Pant, who successfully silenced his critics with a return to form.
Hetmyer was absolutely relentless on his way to a century, launching seven sixes, including one that soared high enough to hit the roof. Most of his boundaries were dispatched over deep mid-wicket. Beside him, Shai Hope provided the perfect balance, securing his 8th ODI hundred in the process.
The West Indies bowling attack was effective, with Cottrell taking 2/46 (with 3 maidens), alongside Paul and Alzarri Joseph, who took 2/41 and 2/45 respectively. India had struggled early on the slow track, finding themselves in trouble at 80/3 by the 19th over before Iyer and Pant stabilized the innings.