Strong Starts for Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, and USA in West Indies Under-19 Cricket Tournament

The 2025 West Indies Under-19 Cricket Tournament commenced on July 3rd, 2025, across several venues in St. Kitts and Nevis. The opening day witnessed a dominant performance by Barbados against Guyana at the Et Willet Park in Nevis. Barbados amassed a substantial total of 287 runs for the loss of 6 wickets, anchored by a solid 63-run contribution from Dorne. In response, Guyana’s batting lineup crumbled under pressure, managing only 137 runs, with Apple top-scoring at 38. Barbados secured a commanding victory by 140 runs, setting a strong precedent for the tournament.

Meanwhile, in St. Kitts, a nail-biting encounter unfolded between Trinidad and Tobago and the USA’s second team. USA 2 posted a competitive 259 runs for the loss of 7 wickets, courtesy of notable performances by Arepally (66) and Tummala (51). Trinidad and Tobago, in pursuit of the target, experienced a dramatic chase, ultimately reaching 263 for 9 wickets, with Boodoo playing a crucial role with a 75-run knock. The thrilling contest concluded with Trinidad and Tobago edging out USA 2 by a narrow margin of 1 wicket.

In another match, the Windward Islands faced off against the Leeward Islands. The Windward Islands set a modest target of 124 runs, with Edward and Pascal contributing 21 runs each. McKenzie delivered a remarkable bowling performance for the Leeward Islands, claiming 5 wickets for 36 runs. However, the Leeward Islands struggled to chase down the target, folding for 119 runs, with De’Antre Drew’s 28 runs being the highest individual score. The Windward Islands secured a close victory by 5 wickets.

The final match of the opening day featured USA 1 against Jamaica. USA 1 set a challenging target of 209 runs, propelled by a brilliant 85-run innings from Shwethan. Redwood spearheaded Jamaica’s bowling attack, picking up 4 wickets for 41 runs. In response, Jamaica managed 196 runs, with Prasad scoring 58 runs and Srivastava delivering an impressive bowling performance with 4 wickets for 31 runs. USA 1 emerged victorious by 13 runs.

These opening matches of the 2025 Windies Under-19 Cricket Tournament showcased a blend of dominant performances and closely fought contests. Barbados’ emphatic win against Guyana established their early dominance, while Trinidad and Tobago’s thrilling victory over USA 2 highlighted the competitive spirit of the tournament. The Windward Islands’ narrow win against the Leeward Islands and USA 1’s close victory against Jamaica further underscored the unpredictable nature of the competition.

The tournament promises to be a captivating showcase of emerging cricketing talent from the Caribbean and beyond. The early results suggest a competitive tournament ahead, with several teams vying for supremacy. The performances of individual players like Dorne, Boodoo, McKenzie, Shwethan, and Redwood indicate the potential for exciting displays of batting and bowling prowess throughout the tournament. As the tournament progresses, the teams will refine their strategies and strive for consistent performances to secure a spot in the later stages. The matches to come will undoubtedly provide a thrilling spectacle for cricket enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the future stars of West Indies cricket.