WINDHOEK, Namibia – In a decisive Group D finale at the HP Oval, the West Indies Under-19 cricket team clinched their place in the Super Six phase of the 2026 ICC Under-19 Men’s World Cup with a commanding 55-run victory against South Africa. The regional squad concluded the group stage with four points from three matches, having previously defeated Tanzania but fallen short against Afghanistan.
The match unfolded with West Indies opting to bat after winning the toss. Openers Tanez Francis and Zachary Carter navigated the early overs steadily before Francis departed for 14 in the seventh over. Carter then seized control, delivering a spectacular display of power-hitting that featured eight fours and eight sixes on his way to a maiden Youth ODI century. Captain Joshua Dorne contributed 20 runs in a stabilizing 82-run partnership before the middle order briefly faltered.
Jonathan Van Lange (29) and Shaquan Belle (18) provided crucial lower-order contributions to propel West Indies to a competitive total of 234 all out.
In response, South Africa – who had posted 397 runs against Tanzania in their previous outing – were bowled out for 179, owing largely to a sensational bowling performance by Shaquan Belle. The paceman recorded tournament-best figures of 6-40, well-supported by Jakeem Pollard, Isra-el Morton, and Vitel Lawes, who each claimed a wicket. Jason Rowles top-scored for South Africa with 46, but the team struggled to build meaningful partnerships under sustained West Indian pressure.
Zachary Carter earned Player of the Match honors for his match-defining century. Reflecting on his performance, Carter stated: “My intention was to maximize the powerplay, build momentum, and help secure the win. After a couple of low scores, this innings means the world – it proves that with fight and belief, we can go far in this tournament.”
The West Indies now advance to the Super Six round, where they will face the first and third-placed teams from Group A. Their next match is scheduled for January 25 at the HP Oval, followed by a fixture at Harare Sports Club in Zimbabwe on January 28. Broadcast coverage will be available through ESPN Caribbean, Disney+, Willow TV, Sky Sports, and via global streaming on ICC.tv.