Nevis Defeats Antigua in Under-19 Cricket Tournament

The Leeward Islands Under-19 Cricket Tournament kicked off on Tuesday, April 15th, 2025, with two exciting matches showcasing the budding talent of the region’s young cricketers. The tournament, hosted in St. Kitts, promised a thrilling display of skill and sportsmanship, and the opening day certainly delivered on that promise. The first match, held at the historic Warner Park, witnessed a dominant performance by Nevis against Antigua & Barbuda. Nevis chose to bat first and posted a respectable total of 176 runs, setting a challenging target for their opponents.

Nevis’s innings was anchored by a composed half-century from their captain, Jevon Manners, who showcased his batting prowess with a well-crafted 50. His innings provided a solid foundation for the team’s total, and he received valuable support from Carlton Pluck, who contributed a crucial 41 runs. Their partnership laid the groundwork for a competitive total, putting pressure on Antigua & Barbuda’s bowling attack. Antigua & Barbuda’s response with the bat was far from ideal. They struggled to cope with the spin bowling duo of Pemberton and Wilkinson, who wreaked havoc in their batting lineup. Both bowlers displayed exceptional control and guile, picking up three wickets apiece and dismantling the Antiguan batting order. The consistent pressure applied by the Nevisian spinners proved too much for Antigua & Barbuda to handle, and they were eventually bowled out for a paltry 100 runs. This resounding victory by 76 runs for Nevis marked a strong start to their tournament campaign.

Meanwhile, at the Conaree Cricket Ground, another enthralling encounter unfolded between St. Kitts and St. Maarten. St. Kitts, batting first, amassed a formidable total of 222 runs for the loss of 8 wickets. Their batsmen displayed an aggressive approach, capitalizing on the favorable batting conditions and punishing any loose deliveries from the St. Maarten bowlers. St. Maarten, faced with a daunting chase, faltered under pressure and were eventually bowled out for a mere 97 runs. The star of the show for St. Kitts was undoubtedly their young bowler, Bergan, who produced a mesmerizing spell of fast bowling. His figures of 5 wickets for 12 runs were a testament to his raw talent and ability to generate pace and movement off the pitch. Bergan’s devastating spell effectively dismantled the St. Maarten batting lineup, securing a comprehensive victory for St. Kitts by a margin of 125 runs.

The opening day of the Leeward Islands Under-19 Cricket Tournament showcased the immense potential and talent within the region’s young cricketers. The matches were characterized by a combination of disciplined bowling, aggressive batting, and exceptional fielding, providing an exciting spectacle for the enthusiastic spectators. The tournament promises to be a closely contested affair, with each team vying for the coveted title. The victories by Nevis and St. Kitts on the opening day have set the stage for an exciting competition, and fans can anticipate more thrilling encounters in the days to come. The tournament serves as a platform for these young cricketers to showcase their skills and gain valuable experience, paving the way for their future cricketing careers.

The impressive performances by individuals like Jevon Manners, Carlton Pluck, Pemberton, Wilkinson, and especially Bergan, highlight the depth of talent within the Leeward Islands. The tournament not only provides a competitive environment for the players but also contributes to the development and growth of cricket in the region. The Leeward Islands Cricket Board’s commitment to nurturing young talent is evident in the organization and execution of this tournament. The tournament provides a platform for scouts and coaches to identify promising players and provide them with opportunities to further develop their skills. The exposure and experience gained by these young cricketers will undoubtedly benefit them in their cricketing journeys. The Leeward Islands Under-19 Cricket Tournament serves as a testament to the passion and dedication for the sport within the region, and it is exciting to witness the emergence of the next generation of cricketing stars. As the tournament progresses, the competition is expected to intensify, and the matches will undoubtedly provide thrilling entertainment for cricket enthusiasts across the Leeward Islands.