In a heart-pounding display of resilience and skill, West Indies U19 scripted a stunning run-chase to defeat Sri Lanka U19 by 3 wickets in the 6th Youth ODI at the Vivian Richards Stadium in North Sound, Antigua.
The victory secured the seven-match series 4-2 with a game to spare, showcasing the depth and determination of the young Caribbean side.
After been put into bat first, Sri Lanka U19 posted a competitive 287/6 in their allotted 50 overs. The innings was anchored by opener Viran Chamuditha, who played a sparkling knock of 88 runs off 85 balls, studded with 10 fours.
His aggressive strokeplay set a solid foundation, supported by vital contributions from skipper Vimath Dinsara (58) and Dimantha Mahavithana (49).
Chasing 288, West Indies U19 faced early trouble as Sri Lanka’s bowlers struck with precision, reducing the hosts to a precarious 125/5. The top order struggled to convert starts, and the chase appeared to be slipping away as wickets tumbled at regular intervals.
The turning point came through a game-changing 115-run partnership for the sixth wicket between Joshua Dorne and Jonathan van Lange. Dorne, the standout performer, played a match-defining knock of 95 runs off 89 balls, including 5 fours and 3 sixes.
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For Sri Lanka U19, Vigneshwaran Akash’s fiery spell of 3/41 was a highlight, as he consistently troubled the West Indies batters. However, the lack of support from other bowlers and the resilient stand by Dorne and van Lange proved too much to overcome.
The seventh and final Youth ODI is scheduled for September 15, at the Vivian Richards Stadium. While the series is decided, both teams will be eager to make a statement in the dead rubber, with young talents vying to cement their places in their respective sides.
Brief Scores
Sri Lanka U19 – 287/6 (50) Viran Chamuditha 88, Vimath Dinsara 58*, Dimantha Mahavithana 49, Joshua Dorne 2/36
West Indies U19 – 289/7 (48.4) Joshua Dorne 95, Tyriek Bryan 52, Jonathan van Lange 50, Vigneshwaran Akash 3/41, Sethmika Senevirathne 2/40
Result – West Indies U19 won by 3 wickets
