Lane takes the positives

England Coach Mark Lane was optimistic despite the game being washed out

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England women's coach Mark Lane remained optimistic despite seeing more rain than runs during his side's first international of the summer.

The home side were 156 for four against West Indies at Loughborough when a torrential downpour forced the umpires to call for the covers in the 43rd over.

The continuing shower, loud claps of thunder and a large puddle near the middle meant it was little surprise when the game was eventually abandoned at 3.30pm.

England captain Charlotte Edwards hit a fine 60 not out before the rain came while opener Sarah Taylor looked in sublime form at the top of the order.

"It was really worthwhile," said Lane. "It was time the middle for Charlotte [Edwards] which is what we are looking for. She played really well for her 60. We also saw a great start from Sarah Taylor which was fantastic."

Lane added that batting in match conditions is much more valuable than a net session.

"Players spending time at the crease is vitally important," he said. "Time at the middle, judging singles, running twos and getting some mileage in your legs is very important.

"We make nets very intense and set match specific scenarios, but there is nothing like having two quality umpires, a new ball coming at you and a bit of a crowd - you don't get better than that."

Sarah Taylor compiled a fluent 26 at the top of the order

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The England players met at Loughborough on Thursday for a training session ahead of the double-header with West Indies. The second and final one-day international is on Saturday and Lane is happy with how is squad are shaping up.

"I was really pleased with Anya [Shrubsole]," he said. "We have only had a couple of sessions but I am really pleased with her progress."

"Lynsey Askew bowled nicely in the nets this morning and Laura Marsh had a good session with Jack [Burkinshaw]. Things are really exciting."

Lane was also impressed with the tourists who have undergone a complete facelift in terms of personnel since the 2005 World Cup.

Coached by former Test batsman Sherwin Campbell, they were sharp in the field, chased everything, threw wpowerfully and hit the stumps regularly.

"They were fantastic, I thought they were really good," added Lane.

"Their fielding was brilliant. There was a couple of brilliant run outs and they have strong arms too. They brought some enthusiasm and entertainment."