China beat the Netherlands 3-1 in their first match of the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) Women's Volleyball Nations League (VNL) in south China's Macao Special Administrative Region on Wednesday.

The Netherlands took the first set 25-21 but China, the top-ranked Asian team, clawed back to win the following sets 25-23, 25-23 and 25-21.

"It's our first match on this court and I think we will do better," said China captain Yuan Xinyue, Xinhua reported.

Elles Dambrink of the Netherlands scored a match-high 24 points, while Yuan contributed 17 points, the highest score for China.

29-year-old Zhu Ting was called up in the fourth set as she rejoined the Chinese squad after two years.

China's outside hitter Li Yingying, who referred to Zhu as "Sister Zhu," said, "We are very happy and welcome 'Sister Zhu' back to the team. Her strength is undoubtable, so even though we haven't played together for a long time and may be a bit unfamiliar with each other, her skills are still there. She is still Zhu Ting!"