Kent’s Sam Billings took four catches to help England Lions win their first one-day match against South Africa A in Bloemfontein.

The Pembury ace, preferred behind the stumps to Jonny Bairstow, who was utilised in the field, also cracked 19 from 25 balls with the bat to help steer the Lions 1-0 up in the five-match one-day series.

England cast-off Ben Stokes, one of five players who have joined the Lions for the series, took 4-22 as the hosts were dismissed for 172 with more than 10 of their 50 overs remaining.

Jason Roy (43) top-scored in the reply as the Lions recovered from 88-4 to reach their target with four wickets and 15 overs remaining, with a 44-run partnership between Stokes (31) and Billings for the fifth wicket proving key.

Kent spinner Adam Riley missed-out on a start as Lions skipper James Vince opted for a five-strong seam attack.

The second one-day match is at Kimberley on Wednesday with the third on Saturday, fourth on Monday, February 2 and final clash on Thursday, February 5.