Saint Lucia’s Under-23 cricket team has clinched the bilateral 50-over series against Dominica with a commanding five-wicket victory in Portsmouth, taking an insurmountable 2-0 lead with one match remaining. The Friday contest, reduced to 20 overs per side due to playing conditions, showcased all-round excellence from the visiting side.
Dominica, having won the toss and elected to bat at Benjamin’s Park, encountered immediate trouble as their captain Stephan Pascal fell early for just five runs to Jaden Elibox. The home team’s innings never gained substantial momentum despite a resilient 72-run knock from Lluvio Charles that provided some stability. Elibox emerged as the bowling protagonist, claiming four crucial wickets for 35 runs in just 3.5 overs, systematically dismantling Dominica’s middle order. Aaron Joseph provided valuable support with figures of 2-20 as the hosts limped to 149-9 from their allotted overs.
In response, Saint Lucia launched an aggressive and calculated chase led by captain Noelle Leo’s explosive half-century. Leo blazed to 57 runs from merely 18 deliveries, peppering the boundary with eight fours and three sixes. He received formidable support from Theo Edward, who contributed a rapid 48 from 34 balls featuring two fours and five sixes. The opening partnership of 69 runs within the first five overs effectively neutralized any potential pressure from the Dominican bowlers. Although Saint Lucia lost several middle-order batsmen in quick succession, they comfortably reached the target of 153 in just 17.3 overs, winning with 15 deliveries to spare.
The victory marks Saint Lucia’s successful defense of their 50-over championship title against their regional rivals. Both teams will complete the series with a final match before transitioning to a three-day format contest, providing additional development opportunities for emerging Caribbean cricketers.