New Zealand took a 1-0 lead in their three-match One-Day International series against the West Indies with a five-run win in the rain-affected series opener at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua.

In the rain-affected game, both sides were allowed 35 overs, and New Zealand has the win to show for it. 

The West Indies could only manage 168-7 after being put in to bat first as New Zealand earlier won the toss.

Openers Rashada Williams (19) and Natasha McLean (20) both got starts before crucial late knocks from Kyshona Knight (36) and Chinelle Henry (44) helped the hosts post a respectable total.

Medium pacer Jess Kerr (2-29 from six overs) and left-arm spinner Fran Jonas (2-22 from seven overs) were the pick of the bowlers for New Zealand.

New Zealand ran into a bad light, but that could not stop them from winning at 159 -5 after 33 overs as Duckworth-Lewis had the last say.

Opener Suzie Bates top-scored with 51 off 65 balls, including six fours, while Amelia Kerr added an unbeaten 47 off 67 balls, including four fours.

West Indies captain Hayley Matthews took 3-28 from seven overs while Chinelle Henry and Afy Fletcher took a wicket apiece.

The second ODI is set to start on Thursday.

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Readers Bureau, Contributor

Edited by Jesus Chan

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