West Indies opener, Tagenarine ‘Cub’ Chanderpaul was yesterday overjoyed at reaching his maiden Test century in only his third test match as he continues to live up to expectations set by his legendary father, Shivnarine.
Tagenarine Saturday etched his name into the record books with an unbeaten 101 in the first innings of the first Test against Zimbabwe at Bulawayo, a feat he is overjoyed about.
He has since received praises for from none other than His Excellency, Guyana’s President, Dr. Irfaan Ali.
President Ali, on his official page, stated, “Congratulations to Tagenarine Chanderpaul on his maiden Test century (101 not out) in the ongoing match against Zimbabwe at Bulawayo.”
Chanderpaul became the only other opener other than captain, Kraigg Brathwaite, who also scored a century, to score triple figures since Chris Gayle a decade ago.
Chanderpaul and Brathwaite have now added 221 for the first wicket, only the third double century opening stand for West Indies since 2010.
Gayle has featured in two double century opening stands adding 254 against New Zealand in 2012 with Kieran Powell and 214 with Daren Ganga in 2001 at this very venue. This is also the 10th time in West Indies history that the openers have shared in a partnership of 200 or more.
Notably, this is the highest partnership for West Indies in Tests against Zimbabwe for any wicket.
Since the 26-year-old made his debut against Australia he has scored 51, 45, 47 and 17 prior to yesterday’s century.
During a press conference after his ton, Chanderpaul suggested that his father, Shivnarine, “is probably feeling proud, hopefully.”
He was unable to hold back his smile and laughter at the suggestion noting that his father was watching the game and had messaged him the night before, telling him “Don’t settle for a 40 or 50, try and get a big score,” and that is what he did.
Unable to hold back his emotion, the left-hander said, “[this is the] best feeling, scoring a century…I’m happy right now, excited, overjoyed…”
Meanwhile Skipper Kraigg Brathwaite who is unbeaten on 116 said, “We had a plan and wanted to accelerate and put in a position to declare at some time today. Kudos to Tage. Losing almost a day is a lot of time. We have to make a plan and put some runs on the board tomorrow. [On Chanderpaul] He looks to be world-class and is a top opener. Glad we have got some big partnerships thus far and would love to continue.”
The Guyana Cricket Board and Berbice Cricket Board also extended congratulations to the opener while Glenn Phillips commented, “Tagenarine playing just like his father-something most legends’ sons are unable to…”
