Chris H. Gayle smashed 50 from 34 balls with three sixes to give West Indies' chase a quick start. Photo: Photo: India Today

West Indies produced a blistering bowling display to crush Pakistan by seven wickets and begin their World Cup campaign with an emphatic victory at Trent Bridge today, May 31, 2019. Photo: zeenewsindia.com

The two-time champions bowled Pakistan out for just 105 in 21.4 overs - their second lowest total in World Cup history.

All 10 wickets fell to seam with the West Indies bowlers quick and hostile in front of a crowd vociferously in support of Pakistan in Nottingham.

Oshane Thomas took 4-27, captain Jason Holder 3-42 and Andre D. Russell a brilliant 2-4 in three overs as only two Pakistan batsmen passed 20.

Christopher H. Gayle aka 'Chris' smashed 50 from 34 balls with three sixes to give West Indies' chase a quick start and, despite three wickets for Mohammad Amir, the win was sealed with 36.1 overs remaining when Nicholas Pooran smashed a huge six.

The bowling performance only strengthens the view that West Indies could be serious contenders to win their first 50-over World Cup since 1979, while it is a miserable start for Pakistan who won the Champions Trophy in England just two years ago.

The only potential negative for West Indies was the back injury Gayle looked to have sustained while batting, while Russell also received treatment at one stage.

Both are expected to be fine for their side's next game against Australia on Thursday, June 6, 2019.

Pakistan play England on Monday, June 3, 2019, again at Trent Bridge.