Windies batting collapse helps Australia clinch first ODI by 64 runs

St Vincent (West Indies), Mar 17(ANI): West Indies lost six middle order wickets for just seven runs in a dramatic fashion in their pursuit of Australia's modest target of 204, helping the visitors win the first one-day international at St Vincent by 64 runs on Friday.

West Indies were bowled out for 140, courtesy of a four wicket spell by spinner Xavier Doherty, who was hit for three sixes in his first over.

Batting first the Australian batsman found it difficult to score runs on a low and two-paced Arnos Vale Cricket Ground pitch, and could only manage to score 204-8 in their stipulated fifty overs.

George Bailey top scored for the Aussies with 48 in his one-day debut, and was adjudged man of the match for his patient knock.

Windies were well placed at one stage with 97-3, but in a remarkable turnaround were reduced to 9-104.

Doherty was the pick of the bowlers, rebounding well after Marlon Samuels (35) smashed three sixes in his first over, but Clint McKay (2-22) and Dan Christian (2-12) also contributed for the tourists.

Dwayne Bravo, in his first match of international cricket in nine months, was the best player for the Windies, scoring 32 and taking three wickets with the ball.

After the match, Australian captain Shane Watson said the win would be a good learning experience for his young team.

"It's a great way to be able to start the tour and show the guys who haven't played much against the West Indies that if you're able to sustain a bit of pressure for a period of time, we know we can get the results we want," The Sydney Morning Herald quoted Watson, as saying.

Windies captain Darren Sammy was visibly upset with his team's dramatic collapse, and said his batsmen performed irresponsibly.

Australia now leads the five-match series 1-0. (ANI)