Interim captain Brandon King starred, as the West Indies carved out a 28 run win over South Africa to take a one nil lead in their three game T20 international series at Sabina Park yesterday.

In front of an adoring home crowd, the Jamaican King cracked 79 from 45 balls to lead the Windies to a competitive 175 for 8 off their 20 overs.

King also shared in a 79-run second-wicket partnership with Kyle Mayers who scored 34.

Roston Chase unbeaten on 32 was the next best as debutant Ottneil Baartman collected 3 for 26 while Andile phehlukwayo picked up 3 for 28.

Despite a valiant effort of 87 from Reeza Hendricks who hit six sixes and six fours, South Africa came up short at 147 all out in the 20th over.

Gudakesh Motie was the pick of the West Indian bowlers taking 3 for 25 while debutant Matthew Forde bagged 3 for 27.

Debutant Shamar Joseph also picked up 1 for 20.

The teams will now turn their attention to the second game on Saturday.