England have started their T20 World Cup campaign in impressive style with a six-wicket victory over defending champions West Indies.
In what was a repeat of the 2016 final, a captivating battle was anticipated in Dubai with both nations under pressure to make a fast start in Group 1.
However, England dominated from start to finish, Moeen Ali and Chris Woakes sharing three wickets before the dismissal of Chris Gayle reduced West Indies to 31-4.
The expected big-hitting resurgence never materialised, Adil Rashid producing several moments of brilliance on his way to collecting four wickets for just two runs.
Requiring just 56 to win, England quickly went from 21-0 to 39-4 as Jason Roy (11), Jonny Bairstow (9), Moeen (3) and Liam Livingstone (1) all missed out on an opportunity to get their side over the line with minimal fuss.
Jos Buttler stood firm, however, as the opener ticked off 24 runs off 22 balls to help England reach their target after just 8.2 overs.
Earlier in the day, Australia recorded a five-wicket triumph over South Africa, sealing their success with two balls to spare.
Darren Plant
