'All Credit Goes to Wavell' - Hooper

West Indies skipper Carl Hooper lauded opener Wavell Hinds for scoring an impressive century in an unfamiliar position against India in the fifth and final Test here.

"Ideally, he bats at number three, but he has shown a lot character in this innings," said Hooper.

Hinds hammered a superb 113 as the West Indies reached 287 for 4 at stumps on the opening day after being put in to bat at Sabina Park.

"It was pleasing to see Hinds bat," said Hooper. "All credit to him. He was not chosen for the three Tests and then was thrust into a situation he was not familiar with. He's a number-three batsman who has also made 65 as an opener in the last Test at Antigua before coming good in front of his own people with a century."

Hooper said his team had a good day despite losing three wickets for 18 runs in the closing session. "We won the first two sessions, but probably lost one wicket too many in the final session. We could have done better, but it was still a satisfying day."

He said his team needed to score more than 350 to improve its chances of putting pressure on India. "Anything over 350 and we've a chance," said Hooper. "We aren't going to underestimate India because there's a lot of time left in this Test. We must try to get as many runs as possible in the first innings.

"I think it's a good wicket. Once you get in and the moisture wears off, it's good to bat on. Even if there is good pace, the ball comes on to the bat."
Hinds echoed his captain's sentiments, saying the pitch was not difficult to bat on. "There's a bit of bounce and sideways movement, but it's still a very good wicket for batting," said Hinds.

"The fast bowlers got some bounce and movement. It has a lot of grass and if you allow the ball to come on to the bat, you're in a better position. Once you put the ball in the right areas, you get results."

Hinds said he was not pleased with the way he had lost his wicket in the closing session. "I'm pleased with my hundred in front of my home crowd, but I should have been not out at the end of the day's play. We'd have been in a better position then."

"I'm disappointed in getting out and letting the team down. I should have consolidated a bit more."

Hinds was caught by Wasim Jaffer at long-off while trying to hoist Harbhajan Singh for his third six.

SOURCE: BBC Sports Online.