England vs West Indies, 1st ODI - Live Cricket Score, Commentary

Build-up: Windies look to keep alive WC qualification hopes

A five-match bilateral ODI series rarely has any context nowadays but the next five games for Windies assume utmost importance. A direct World Cup qualification is the carrot dangling in front of Windies, who shouldn't lose a single match in the series and win at least four games. A single reversal will put paid to their hopes of a direct entry for the 2019 World Cup. For England, the series offers them an opportunity to put behind the disappointment of their semi-final exit in the Champions Trophy and build the core for the World Cup in two years' time.

While England have proven performers in the line-up, it's a fresh opportunity for Jonny Bairstow, the new opener, to prove his 50-over credentials. Windies have a mix of experience and youth in their line-up and will count on senior players like Chris Gayle and Marlon Samuels to lead from the front and set an example. While we wait for the toss and the teams, have a look at our preview for the series opener to know what's in store.