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Netherlands proved no match for a confident West Indies side as they went down by 10 wickets in the opening match of the quadrangular series at Clontarf in Dublin. Dwayne Smith’s medium pace claimed four wickets as Netherlands collapsed for 80, then Chris Gayle’s 41-ball half-century ensured West Indies sped home before the approaching clouds caused any problems.

West Indies needed less than 15 overs to knock off the runs as Gayle slammed six fours a six. Devon Smith provided solid support in what was nothing more than an extended net and completed the victory with a flick to fine leg.

Netherlands’ batsmen had no such luxury as only three managed to reach double figures. Their problems started early when Ravi Rampaul trapped Tim de Grooth lbw in the fourth over and Bas Zuiderent, formerly of Sussex, fell in similar fashion. Alex Kervezee, who is on Worcestershire’s books, managed five boundaries in his 22 before being caught behind off Powell and the innings continued in a rapid downward spiral.

Denesh Ramdin was kept busy behind the stumps, collecting five catches, as West Indies’ seamers caused plenty of problems. Fidel Edwards proved too quick for Peter Borren then Smith’s swing did the bulk of the remaining damage. Darren Sammy, who missed out on the one-day series against England, claimed two cheap wickets as the innings folded inside 32 overs.

There was no sign of West Indies relaxing following the series win against England with Gayle determined not to slip up against the Associates. Netherlands, though, were clearly not up to the battle and are a few rungs down from the likes of Ireland, who make up the tournament alongside Scotland. Netherlands have a chance to put up a better showing when they take on the hosts, at Stormont, on Wednesday.

Source:Cricket News