The West Indies Under-19 cricket team launched their ICC World Cup campaign with a decisive five-wicket triumph against Tanzania on Thursday. The match, held at Namibia’s High Performance Oval, marked a significant milestone for captain Joshua Dorne, who surpassed former Test captain Kraigg Brathwaite’s record by appearing in his 23rd Youth ODI for the Maroon.
The Caribbean side demonstrated bowling dominance from the outset, efficiently dismissing Tanzania for a modest 122 runs within 34 overs. Left-arm wrist spinner Vitel Orlando Lawes emerged as the primary bowling force, claiming three crucial wickets for 26 runs. His performance was complemented by leg spinner Micha McKenzie (2/15) and eventual Player of the Match Shaquan Antone Belle, who contributed two wickets for 23 runs.
In response, the West Indies’ chase was anchored by a formidable 80-run partnership between wicketkeeper-batsman Jewel Andrew and Tanez Francis. Andrew’s aggressive 44-run knock nearly reached half-century status, while Francis secured a solid 52 runs. Despite losing late wickets in pursuit of net run rate advantages, the team comfortably achieved their target with 21 overs remaining, concluding with Belle and Shamar Apple at the crease.
The victory establishes positive momentum for the Caribbean squad as they prepare for their subsequent Group Stage encounter against Afghanistan’s Under-19 team scheduled for January 18th.