Australia’s bowlers delivered a 64-run win over the West Indies in the opening one-day international in St Vincent on Friday.
Defending 8-204, Australia dismissed the hosts for just 140 at the Arnos Vale Cricket Ground after a calamitous batting collapse by the Windies to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.
Left-arm spinner Xavier Doherty (4-49), smashed for three sixes in his first over, rebounded magnificently to claim four quick wickets in his second spell and derail the West Indies’ run chase.
The hosts had appeared on track to claim a first one-day international win over Australia since 2006 when Dwayne Bravo (32) and Marlon Samuels (35) added 64 for the fourth wicket.
But when Bravo was bowled by Dan Christian (2-12) it sparked a remarkable collapse as the hosts lost six wickets for just seven runs to slump to 9-104.
Doherty was the main beneficiary of the home team’s implosion, picking up Samuels and Carlton Baugh (0) in the same over before having Andre Russell (1) stumped by Matthew Wade an over later.
The Tasmanian then completed his good afternoon with the wicket of young spinner Sunil Narine to round off a remarkable collapse by the home team.
Captain Darren Sammy (35) lifted the total with some late hitting but was the last man out as angry home fans chanted “we want Gayle” in a clear statement to selectors to end their feud with explosive opener Chris Gayle and bring him back into the team.
Earlier, Australia’s batting was highlighted by a patient 48 on debut by George Bailey, who combined with Christian (18no) to lift Australia’s total past 200 on the low and slow pitch.
David Warner (40) and Michael Hussey (32) also chipped in to ensure Australia had what turned out to be an easily defendable score.
Dwayne Bravo was the pick of the West Indian bowlers, taking 3-58 off 10 overs in his first international match for nine months.
The series continues with a second match at the same venue on Sunday (0030 Mon AEDT).