CricketNewsSports West Indies cruise to victory over UAE in first ODI by Barbados Today 04/06/2023 written by Barbados Today Updated by Desmond Brown 04/06/2023 1 min read A+A- Reset Share FacebookTwitterLinkedinWhatsappEmail 292 (AFP) – Brandon King smashed a run-a-ball 112 as the West Indies gave themselves a confidence boost ahead of the World Cup qualifier by thrashing the United Arab Emirates in the first one-day international on Sunday. The tourists bowled out the UAE for 202 and then chased down the target with 14.4 overs to spare to secure a seven-wicket win. The West Indies are preparing for the World Cup qualifying event in Zimbabwe which starts on June 18 and also features the UAE. The two-time world champions have never failed to reach the global showpiece, but only two of the 10 teams in the qualifier will reach the World Cup in India later this year. “King is an exceptional player and someone who I thought would’ve scored a lot more runs early in his career,” said West Indies captain Shai Hope. “But happy for him. He saw the opportunity to take the game forward and happy to see him get his first hundred today.” You Might Be Interested In Crystal Beckles-Holder, 2nd runner up in regional competition Business owners disappointed Police investigate shooting Seamer Keemo Paul was the pick of the Windies bowlers with 3-34 as the hosts failed to bat out their overs despite a counter-attacking 58 from Ali Naseer. Opener King made short work of the total, easing to his maiden ODI ton and hitting 12 fours and four sixes. Hope finished the job in style with back-to-back sixes. The second ODI takes place on Tuesday in Dubai, where the third and final match will also be held on Friday. Barbados Today Stay informed and engaged with our digital news platform. The leading online multimedia news resource in Barbados for news you can trust. You may also like Archer selected for third Test 10/07/2025 West Terrace Triumph 10/07/2025 A calypso giant turns 90 10/07/2025