NORTH SOUND, Antigua (CMC) – Captain Shai Hope has labelled Romario Shepherd an “impact player” following the all-rounder’s cameo in West Indies’ pulsating, four-wicket win over England in the opening One-Day International here Sunday.

The broad-shouldered Shepherd smashed a 28-ball 48 in pressuring circumstances as the home side chased down a record 326 at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

“He’s an impact player. He’s one of those guys that you can depend on,” Hope said following the contest.

“It’s nice to see he’s consistently doing it, and I’m sure that if he continues like this he’s going to be a great all-rounder for West Indies and in world cricket.

“So, hopefully, he can continue, and all of the guys start chipping in and gaining more confidence, and we can get a lot more wins as a team.”

Striding to the crease with West Indies in a spot of bother at 213 for five in the 39th over and facing a required run rate of over ten, Shepherd launched a stunning counter-attack with four fours and three sixes, which changed the complexion of the game.

Crucially, he put on 89 for the sixth wicket with Hope, who carved out a sublime, unbeaten 109 from 83 balls.

By the time he was lbw to seamer Gus Atkinson at the start of the 48th over West Indies were within touching distance of victory.

“He was amazing, he’s always amazing, and he’s continuing to show his worth at this level,” Hope said.

The 29-year-old Shepherd, who described the innings as “one of his best innings so far”, said West Indies were always confident they could overhaul their target.

“We thought we pulled back the game a lot because when you looked at the start [they got], they were looking up 400,” explained Shepherd.

West Indies face England in the second ODI today.