West Indies batsman Lendl Simmons finally got his maiden ODI century to guide the Windies to a 40-run victory over Bangladesh in the first One-Day International.
The 26-year-old opener earned the Man-of-the-Match award for his 122 that was the rock upon which West Indies built a challenging total of 298 for four from their 50 overs after they were sent in to bat on Thursday.
Naturally, Simmons was delighted to have broken his maiden in a match-winning effort for the visitors.
"I am truly delighted to get my first hundred for West Indies and the fact that it came in a victory makes it an even better feeling," he said. "It was a special knock. I would like to dedicate (this) innings to my mother and daughter."
In this year's home series against Pakistan and India, Simmons posted scores of 51 twice, 76 and 77 not out against Pakistan, as well as 53 and 67 against World champions India, but this innings was extra-special for another reason.
It eclipsed an innings of 117 from compatriot and batting legend Brian Lara that stood for 12 years as the highest individual score by a West Indies batsman against Bangladesh.
Simmons was relieved that he could make the transition and looked forward to the remaining two matches in the series.
"I got some very good starts against Pakistan and India, but I couldn't convert them into hundreds," he said.
"I was happy I managed to carry on all the way. I know I have to accept the responsibility of giving the team a platform.
"I always aim big. I always try to give the team a good start so we could get the foundation and look to build big scores. It worked well and we are looking forward to the matches ahead."
The second ODI takes place Saturday at the same venue.
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