Windies stumble in tour opener

The West Indies made a disappointing start to their Australian tour with a seven-wicket loss to Victoria in a one-day match at the MCG. Matthew Elliot and David Hussey both passed 80 to guide Victoria past the West Indies' total in just 32 overs.

Electing to bat first, Brian Lara's men made a strong start with Chris Gayle belting a quickfire 33 from just 23 balls, before falling first. Unfortunately for the tourists, his innings was the highest on their scorecard, with Hinds, Lara, Chanderpaul and Samuels all out in their 20s. The West Indies slumped to 7/151, but managed a recovery of sorts by ninth wicket pair Browne and Bradshaw, whose partnership recently helped win the ICC Champions' Trophy. Bradshaw's 28 lifted the West Indies to their total of 201. Victoria utilised eight bowlers, with seven of them taking wickets, captain Cameron White the best of them with 2/21.

In reply, Victoria suffered two early setbacks as Pedro Collins removed Hodge and Jewell, but from there on it was smooth sailing. Matthew Elliot (87) and David Hussey (83*) blasted the WI bowlers at nearly seven runs per over, taking the Bushrangers to a comfortable win. Dwayne Bravo was the only other wickettaker. The West Indies have two more games to find form over the weekend against Australia A, before heading into the VB Series against Australia and Pakistan.

Score Summary:
WEST INDIANS 201 all out in 47.5 overs
CH Gayle 33; CL White 2/21
VICTORIA 3/205 in 32 overs
MTG Elliot 87, DJ Hussey 83*; PT Collins 2/26

Victoria win by seven wickets

Posted by Adam