Lauderhill, (USA): Chris Gayle treated the locals to a thrilling show of hitting as the West Indies defeated an injury-hit New Zealand by 56 runs in the first of two Twenty20 Internationals in Lauderhill, Florida on Saturday.

Gayle swashbuckled his way to 85 not out from 52 balls and received plenty of support from Kieron Pollard as the Windies amassed 209 runs for the loss of just two wickets after New Zealand had put them in to bat.

Playing in front of a neutral crowd in the US , Gayle blasted seven fours and five sixes in his innings, while Pollard hammered 63 not out from just 29 balls.

New Zealand could only manage 153 in reply with injuries hindering their cause.

Ross Taylor damaged his shoulder in the outfield while dropping a catch and was forced to retire hurt later while batting. Ronnie Hira was also injured, dislocating a finger when he dropped a sharp return chance from Gayle. (Reuters)