In an unprecedented development for Caribbean cricket, the Leeward Islands have secured remarkable representation with six young talents selected for the West Indies squad competing in the upcoming ICC Men’s Under-19 Cricket World Cup. This historic selection marks a significant milestone for the region’s cricket development program.
The tournament, scheduled to commence on January 15th across Zimbabwe and Namibia, will feature exceptional players from the Leeward Islands comprising nearly half of the 15-member West Indies roster. This extraordinary representation underscores years of strategic development and investment in youth cricket throughout the islands.
The selected athletes include Jewel Andrew, Tanez Francis, Micah McKenzie, and Matthew Miller from Antigua and Barbuda, alongside Isra-el Morton representing Sint Maarten, and Kunal Tilokani from St. Kitts. Their selection resulted from demonstrated excellence in performance, exceptional discipline, and outstanding character both on and off the field.
Enoch Lewis, President of the Leeward Islands Cricket Board, characterized this achievement as a transformative moment for regional cricket. “This selection validates the commitment of these young athletes and underscores the effectiveness of our developmental systems,” Lewis stated. “These players embody not just their respective nations but represent the collective advancement of cricket throughout our island chain.”
The Under-19 World Cup selection holds particular significance within West Indies cricket, serving as the foundational platform where future international careers are forged. This accomplishment positions these young cricketers among the Caribbean’s most promising talents while entrusting them with representing the region against world-class opposition.
The Cricket Board acknowledged the collaborative effort involving territorial associations, coaching staff, educational institutions, local clubs, and family support networks that contributed to this success. This achievement demonstrates the power of structured development programs, sustained investment, and long-term belief in athletic potential.
The Leeward Islands Cricket Board has reaffirmed its complete support for the players as they prepare for international competition while emphasizing continued commitment to developing cricket talent across all islands. This moment serves as both celebration of current achievement and inspiration for future generations of Leeward Islands cricketers.