Saint Lucia’s Under-23 cricket team launched their three-match 50-over series against Dominica with a commanding victory at Benjamin’s Park in Portsmouth. The home side, Dominica, initially appeared comfortable after being put in to bat, establishing a promising opening stand of 76 runs without loss. However, their innings unraveled spectacularly following the dismissal of captain Stephan Pascal for 42, caught by Keon Gaston off the bowling of Aaron Joseph.
The collapse was triggered by a combination of disciplined bowling and sharp fielding. Left-arm pacer Aaron Joseph and Kings pacer Keon Gaston emerged as the chief architects of Dominica’s downfall, sharing five crucial wickets between them. Spinner Tarrique Edward made a significant early breakthrough by trapping West Indies U19 player Earshinho Fontaine leg before wicket for a duck. The Dominican batting lineup faltered consistently, with only Malaki Xavier (18) managing to reach double figures besides the openers. The team was ultimately bundled out for a meager 139 runs in just 25 overs. Joseph finished with impressive figures of 3-11 from his five overs, while Gaston contributed 2-16 from his quota.
In response, Saint Lucia’s chase began shakily, losing three early wickets including captain Noelle Leo within the first four overs. However, any concerns were swiftly erased by a spectacular 96-run partnership between Jaden Elibox and Tarrique Edward that steered the visitors to victory. Edward provided solid support with a run-a-ball 25, but it was Elibox who delivered a breathtaking performance, hammering an unbeaten 87 from just 45 deliveries. His explosive innings featured nine massive sixes and three fours, demonstrating remarkable power and precision. Saint Lucia reached their target of 140 in only 16.2 overs, securing a comprehensive win with more than half their overs remaining.
The teams will reconvene at Benjamin’s Park on Friday for the second match of the series, with Dominica seeking to level the competition and Saint Lucia aiming to clinch the series with another strong performance.