Morgan, bowlers power England past Windies in first ODI

Antigua [West Indies], Mar.4 (ANI): Skipper Eoin Morgan hammered a scorching century before bowlers came to the fore as England clinched a 45-run win over West Indies in the opening ODI of the three-match series at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium here on Saturday. After being asked to bat first, opener Sam Billings struck a quick-fire knock of 52 runs before being dismissed off Ashley Nurse's delivery. Subsequently, Morgan smashed 11 boundaries and two sixes in his 107-run knock besides sharing a 110-run partnership with Ben Stokes (55). It was Morgan's fifth ODI century as captain, the most by an England skipper. He went past Andrew Strauss and Alastair Cook who had struck four centuries when leading. Meanwhile, Moeen Ali remained unbeaten at 31. In reply, West Indies were bundled out for 251 despite some brilliant efforts by Jason Mohammed (72) and Jonathan Carter (52). For England, Liam Plunkett was the pick of the bowler for his figures of four for 40 followed by Chris Woakes' four for 47. Adil Rashid also chipped in with a wicket. Morgan was declared `man-of-the-match` for his brilliant knock. With the win, England have now taken a 1-0 lead in the series. The two sides will now lock horns at the same venue on Sunday. (ANI)