Winning starts for England, Windies

Women's World T20

England, the tournament favourites, and the West Indies enjoyed contrasting wins on the opening day of the women's World Twenty20 here on Thursday.

England, the world 50-over champions, crushed India by 10 wickets while the Windies squeezed past South Africa by just four runs.

Chasing only 113 to win, England openers Sarah Taylor (50 not out) and Charlotte Edwards (61 not out) romped to victory with more than four overs to spare and with 13 fours and two sixes between them.

India's best score was 29 from Mithali Raj while England bowlers, 18-year-old student, Holly Colvin (3-20) and Nicky Shaw (2-28) kept the brakes on.

"This is our biggest game and hopefully this will clinch our semi-final spot," said England skipper Edwards.

"Everyone wanted to see how we'd react to the tag of favourites. Whenever there's a bit of pressure on this team the players come out fighting. I was really, really pleased with Holly - she bowled so well.

"To come out and play as we have done today in front of such an enthusiastic crowd has been fantastic."

West Indies' star was 18-year-old Stafanie (eds: correct) Taylor who celebrated her birthday with a 52-ball 50 in her side's 123 for 7.

South Africa slipped to 82 for 6 in reply but Mignon du Preez, with 38 from 28 balls, gave her team hope while Sunette Loubser hit 19 from 16 balls.

Both were eventually run out as their team's hopes vanished.