Fri Nov 01 04:00:06 UTC 2024: ## West Indies Thrash England in Rain-Shortened ODI, Lewis Stars with 96

**Antigua, Antigua and Barbuda:** Evin Lewis’ blistering 96 runs propelled the West Indies to an emphatic eight-wicket victory over England in the first ODI at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium on Tuesday.

The rain-shortened match saw the West Indies chase down a revised target of 157 with ease, thanks to Lewis’s aggressive batting. The Trinidadian opener smashed five fours and eight sixes in his 69-ball innings, showcasing his trademark power hitting.

Earlier, England, fielding an inexperienced line-up, struggled to post a competitive total, eventually being bowled out for 209 in 45.1 overs. Left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie led the West Indies bowling attack, claiming 4-41. Stand-in England captain Liam Livingstone, the only batsman to score over 30, top-scored with 48.

England’s bowling attack, which included four debutants, was unable to contain Lewis and his opening partner Brandon King (30), who put on a 118-run partnership. However, the hosts lost wickets at crucial moments, and the match was reduced to 25.5 overs due to rain.

The victory sets the stage for a thrilling series, with the two sides clashing again on Saturday at the same venue followed by a final ODI in Barbados on Wednesday.

**Debutants Struggle for England**

With several key players unavailable due to injury and the upcoming Test series in Pakistan, England fielded a youthful side, including four debutants in John Turner, Jordan Cox, Dan Mousley, and Jamie Overton. This lack of experience was evident as the team struggled to adapt to the conditions and failed to build meaningful partnerships.

England captain Liam Livingstone acknowledged the challenge of adapting to the rhythm of 50-over cricket with a new side, while West Indies skipper Shai Hope praised his team’s disciplined bowling performance and Lewis’s explosive batting.

The series promises to be a crucial learning experience for England’s young players as they strive to build momentum before the crucial Champions Trophy in February.

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