Undefeated USA and Barbados to Clash for Rising Stars Championship in St. Kitts

The 2025 Rising Stars Men’s Under-19 50-Over Championships is hurtling towards a dramatic climax, with defending champions Barbados and an undefeated USA-1 poised for a winner-takes-all clash in the final round. Both teams have navigated the tournament flawlessly, displaying impressive form and dominance in their respective matches, creating a compelling narrative of established Caribbean power versus emerging American prowess. The final match promises a captivating display of cricketing skill and tactical acumen, with the championship title hanging in the balance.

Barbados continued their winning streak with a controlled four-wicket victory over Jamaica. Their bowlers orchestrated a disciplined performance, dismantling the Jamaican batting line-up for a meagre 124 runs. Khomari Griffith spearheaded the attack with an impressive 4 for 14, capitalizing on a dramatic Jamaican collapse from 83/2 to 124 all out. Despite a slightly less explosive batting display than usual, Barbados chased down the target with relative ease, anchored by Zachary Carter’s 37 and Shaquan Belle’s unbeaten 28. While Jamaica’s Kev’Aundre Virgo and Deshawn James picked up two wickets each, they couldn’t prevent the defending champions from securing their fourth consecutive victory.

Meanwhile, USA-1 issued a resounding statement of intent, crushing USA-2 by 81 runs. Amrinder Gill’s elegant 80 and Utkarsh Srivastava’s explosive 53 formed the backbone of USA-1’s imposing total of 274. Saharsh Shwethan (44) and Adnit Jhamb (27) provided valuable support, solidifying their team’s dominant position. USA-2’s chase was stifled by a relentless USA-1 bowling attack, with only Amogh Arepally offering any significant resistance with a valiant 85. Shiv Shani emerged as the pick of the bowlers, claiming figures of 4 for 33, while Advaith Krishna (2-12) and Ansh Rai (2-39) contributed to a comprehensive victory.

Elsewhere in the tournament, the Windward Islands secured a convincing 79-run win over Guyana, powered by Earsinho Fontaine’s magnificent century – only the second of the tournament. Fontaine’s 100 off 118 balls, supported by captain Stephan Pascal’s 41, propelled the Windwards to a challenging 262/8. Despite consistent bowling spells from Guyana’s Golcharran Chulai, Jonathan van Lange, and Parmeshwar Ram, who each claimed two wickets, the Windwards held firm. Guyana’s chase never gained traction, despite contributions from Sachin Balgobin (48) and Riyad Latiff (32), eventually succumbing to the combined bowling prowess of Kirt Murray (3-26), Kirsten Murray (3-33), and Isaiah Jones (3-48).

In a nail-biting encounter, Trinidad and Tobago narrowly defeated the Leeward Islands by nine runs in a thrilling contest that went down to the wire. Trinidad and Tobago posted a competitive 241/9, thanks to valuable contributions from Cristian Rampersaud (43), Stevon Gomez (32), Riyaad Mohammed (29), and Christiano Ramanan (29). The Leeward Islands mounted a spirited chase, despite being in trouble at 93/4, with a 75-run partnership between Matthew Miller (52) and Eirette Richards (38) resurrecting their hopes. However, Miller’s dismissal at 168/5 proved to be the turning point, as the Leewards ultimately fell agonizingly short of the target. Trinidad and Tobago’s bowlers shared the wickets, with Aadian Racha, Zachary Madray, Abdul-Raheem Toppin, and Brendan Boodoo each taking two.

The stage is now set for a captivating final-round showdown between the two undefeated teams, Barbados and USA-1. Barbados, the reigning champions, will be relying on their experience and proven track record in high-pressure situations. They possess a well-balanced team with both batting and bowling firepower, making them a formidable opponent. USA-1, on the other hand, has emerged as a rising force in the tournament, showcasing their talent and ambition with convincing victories. Their blend of aggressive batting and disciplined bowling has taken opponents by surprise, making them a genuine contender for the title.

The final match promises a fascinating clash of styles and a battle of wills. Will Barbados assert their Caribbean dominance and retain their title, or will USA-1 complete their fairytale run with a historic victory? The answer will unfold on the final day, where the two undefeated teams will clash in a match that will determine the 2025 Rising Stars U-19 champions. The cricketing world will be watching with bated breath as these two talented teams lock horns in what is sure to be a memorable finale.