Barbados Poised for Championship Match Against Undefeated USA-1

The Rising Stars Men’s Under-19 50-Over Championship is poised for a thrilling climax as undefeated USA-1 prepares to lock horns with defending champions Barbados in Thursday’s final at the Conaree Sports Club. Both teams showcased their dominance in the preliminary rounds with resounding victories, setting the stage for an epic clash between the tournament’s two most formidable sides.

USA-1 extended their unblemished record with a seventh consecutive victory, cementing their status as the tournament favorites. Facing the Windward Islands, they chased down a target of 210 with four wickets and seven overs to spare. Despite a middle-order wobble that saw them slip to 127 for 5, opener Amrinder Gill’s solid 57 and a composed partnership between Nitish Sudini (43 not out) and Shiv Shani (27 not out) steered them to victory. Earlier, the Windwards posted a respectable 209 all out, anchored by 45 from Earsinho Fontaine and 43 from Theo Edward, but USA-1’s bowlers, led by Utkarsh Srivastava (3-19), maintained control throughout the innings.

Meanwhile, Barbados asserted their authority with a comprehensive 92-run victory over USA-2 at St Mary’s Park, securing their spot in the final. Zachary Carter’s all-round brilliance shone through as he top-scored with 79 off 74 balls and then returned figures of 2-13 with the ball. Captain Joshua Dorne also contributed significantly with a steady 51, guiding Barbados to a formidable total of 248 for 9. USA-2’s chase faltered despite Ansh Bhoje’s 56, with R’Jai Gittens (3-31) and Carter’s spin proving too difficult to handle.

Elsewhere, a nail-biting encounter unfolded at St Paul’s Sports Complex between Jamaica and the Leeward Islands. The Leewards were restricted to a modest 149, with De-Antre Drew’s 24 being the highest individual score. Jamaica’s bowlers shared the wickets, with Roshawn McKenzie, Rhevon Morgan, and Tamarie Redwood each claiming two. The Jamaican chase, seemingly comfortable at 125 for 4, took a dramatic turn as they lost five wickets for just 19 runs. However, the last-wicket pair of Redwood and McKenzie held their nerve to secure a thrilling one-wicket victory. Micah McKenzie (4-35) and Amoree Jones (3-25) almost orchestrated an improbable comeback for the Leewards, but their efforts ultimately fell short.

Unfortunately, rain played spoilsport at Elquemedo Willett Park, washing out the match between Trinidad & Tobago and Guyana. Guyana, batting first, posted a competitive 221 for 8, powered by Jonathan van Lange’s 75, Afraz Ali Budhoo’s 43, and Rampersaud Ramnauth’s 36. Brendan Boodoo starred with the ball for Trinidad & Tobago, taking 3-28. However, persistent rain prevented further play, forcing a no-result. The two teams are scheduled for a rematch on Thursday to determine fifth place in the tournament standings.

As the group stage concludes, attention shifts to the highly anticipated final between USA-1 and Barbados. USA-1 will aim to maintain their perfect record and culminate their dominant campaign with the championship title. Barbados, on the other hand, will be determined to defend their title and reaffirm their status as the reigning champions. The clash promises a compelling contest between two exceptionally talented sides, vying for the ultimate prize.

The final at Conaree Sports Club will be a test of nerves and skill, pitting the tournament’s two best teams against each other. USA-1’s undefeated run will be put to the ultimate test against the experience and pedigree of defending champions Barbados. Cricket fans can expect a high-quality match showcasing the future stars of the game. The contrasting styles of the two teams – USA-1’s consistent batting depth versus Barbados’s blend of power-hitting and skillful bowling – adds another layer of intrigue to the highly anticipated final.