CMC – CENTURY-maker Jewel Andrew says Shai Hope’s unbeaten hundred against England last month served as inspiration, as he attempted to rescue Young West Indies in their opening game of the ICC Under-19 World Cup here Friday.

With West Indies in turmoil at 73 for five in the 10th over in pursuit of 286 for victory against hosts South Africa, the 17-year-old struck a brilliant 130 off 96 deliveries to take the Caribbean side close, before they collapsed to a 31-run defeat at Senwes Park.

“I think it was a great knock,” Andrew said afterwards.

“My mindset was just thinking about the knock that Shai Hope played against England and brought home the game. I was thinking about it today but nevertheless, it was a good knock.”

He continued: “It was just to get in first and then look to capitalise on my strengths. Nevertheless, it was good bowling from the South African team.”

Last month, the One-Day captain Hope struck an unbeaten 109 as West Indies chased down 326 in the opening ODI against England at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground.

Andrew nearly replicated the feat with his fireworks, striking 14 fours and three sixes as he almost single-handedly pulled Young West Indies out of trouble and put them on course for a possible victory.

His 117-run sixth wicket stand with Nathan Sealy (33) put South Africa on the backfoot, and small partnerships of 30 for the seventh wicket with Tarrique Edward (13) and 25 for the eighth with Nathan Edward (12), set up a nervy finish.

“You must have a strong mind and just going out with a clear head will always get me over the line,” Andrew said in reference to his excellent temperament under pressure during the chase.

“[Going] into the next game, [we’re] just looking to tick all the boxes that the coaches set for us and look to come back strong in the next one.”

West Indies take on Scotland at the same venue next Wednesday.