WI Women beat South Africa in rain-affected ODI

CAVE HILL, Barbados:

The West Indies Women kicked off their three-match one-day international (ODI) series against South Africa with a hard-fought four-wicket victory in a rain-disrupted encounter at the Three Ws Oval yesterday.

The hosts, aided by the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method, showed grit and resilience to secure the win, following a challenging tour of England, where they suffered six consecutive defeats.

After winning the toss and electing to field, the West Indies bowlers delivered disciplined performances to restrict South Africa to 232-9 in their 50 overs.

Spinner Karishma Ramharack with 2-44 and seamer Aaliyah Alleyne, who claimed 2-35, led the attack, while sharp fielding resulted in two crucial run outs.

South Africa's total was built around solid contributions from Tazmin Brits, who hit 57 off 65 balls, and Nadine de Klerk with a brisk 42 off 38.

Chasing a revised target of 180 due to the inclement weather, the West Indies openers set the tone with an aggressive 88-run opening partnership.

Captain Hayley Matthews batted resolutely for 40 off 44, and the aggressive Qiana Joseph, who top-scored with a fluent 60 off 58, ensured the hosts stayed ahead of the DLS par score. Joseph's knock was studded with 10 boundaries and a six.

Though the middle order wobbled briefly with Realeanna Grimmond going for five, Chenelle Henry 11, Shemaine Campbelle 12, and Jannilla Glasgow 10 falling cheaply, veteran Stafanie Taylor with a dogged 30 not out off 34, held her nerve to guide the team home.

South Africa's Ayanda Hlubi impressed with 3-50, but it wasn't enough to derail the West Indies' charge.

With a 1-0 lead, the West Indies will aim to clinch the series in the second ODI on Saturday.

- CMC