The White Ferns have cruised to a seven wicket victory in their opening Twenty20 fixture against the West Indies Women at the Arnos Vale Sports Complex in Kingstown.
Following a superb performance with the ball from Morna Nielsen (11-3) the White Ferns restricted the West Indies to 92-6. The visitors made easy work of their target, with an unbeaten 44 from Rachel Priest steering the White Ferns to a convincing victory after 17.5 overs.
Having won the toss and opted to bowl, the White Ferns were on target early with two quick wickets, including the key scalp of the dangerous Deandra Dottin (1).
Stafanie Taylor held things together for the West Indies though, making 43 and combining with Britney Cooper (20) to elevate the home side to a somewhat defendable total.
Nielsen in particular had made it tough for them with the ball, though she was ably backed up by Sophie Devine (12-2) and Holly Huddleston (7-1).
The White Ferns had to overcome an early hiccup in their response when skipper Suzie Bates fell for a duck. Her opening partner Priest was in full control though and found a willing partner in Devine (24) to put the White Ferns in a strong position.
Devine and Sara McGlashan (9) fell in the late stages of the innings, but alongside Katie Perkins (13*), Priest lead her side on to a comfortable victory with 13 balls remaining.
It’s a much needed win for the White Ferns, who were swept by the West Indies in the One Day Internationals 4-0.
The next Twenty20 will be played Friday morning (NZ time).
