West Indies outclass experimental England side in ODI series opener

NORTH SOUND, Antigua: The West Indies cruised to an eight-wicket victory over an experimental England side in a rain-affected One-Day International (ODI) series opener on Thursday in Antigua. After England’s recent Test series loss in Pakistan, the team introduced four ODI debutants in their starting XI for the first of three ODIs against the West Indies. However, the rookies struggled to make a mark, as England managed just 209 runs before being bowled out.

The hosts began their chase strongly, only to be interrupted by rain. Following the break, a revised target was set under the Duckworth–Lewis–Stern (DLS) method, which West Indies chased down comfortably with nine overs to spare. Evin Lewis starred in the innings with a powerful 94, helping his side secure a commanding win.

England will have a chance to bounce back at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium on Saturday, with the final ODI of the series set for next Wednesday in Barbados.