In a dominant display of cricketing prowess, the West Indies Under-19 team delivered a crushing 229-run victory over Japan during an ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup warm-up match in Windhoek on Tuesday, January 13th.
The Caribbean side, having been put into bat first, established a formidable foundation through an explosive opening partnership. Tanez Francis and Zachary Carter launched their innings with a 40-run stand within the initial seven overs, setting the stage for an extraordinary batting performance. Francis emerged as the cornerstone of the innings, remaining unbeaten with a magnificent 122 runs.
The match witnessed an extraordinary fifth-wicket partnership between Francis and Shamar Apple that completely shifted the momentum beyond Japan’s reach. Apple delivered a breathtaking century, hammering 124 runs from a mere 65 deliveries in a display of pure power-hitting that included 10 boundaries and 8 massive sixes.
Facing a daunting victory target of 347, Japan’s batting lineup crumbled under relentless pressure from the West Indies bowling attack. While Taylor Waugh provided some resistance with 32 runs, the team consistently lost wickets at regular intervals. The Japanese side was ultimately dismissed for a mere 117 runs in 31.2 overs.
R’Jai Gittens proved virtually unplayable, finishing with spectacular bowling figures of 4 wickets for just 8 runs. Vitel Lawes provided crucial support with three additional wickets, effectively dismantling Japan’s batting order.
The comprehensive victory positions the West Indies as strong contenders to advance from Group D in the upcoming World Cup preliminary stage, where they will face South Africa, Afghanistan, and tournament newcomers Tanzania.
This impressive performance signals the team’s determination to end their decade-long championship drought, with players and supporters alike hoping to replicate their historic 2016 triumph.