KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent – Barbados emerged victorious in the West Indies Under-19 Championship on Sunday after their two-day final against Jamaica concluded in a tame stalemate at the Arnos Vale Stadium.
Starting the final day with the match evenly poised, Barbados effectively restricted Jamaica to 127 for eight declared, then batted out the remaining sessions to finish on 172 for two in their second innings, securing their triumph based on first-innings points.
Openers Kyle Jordan and Joshua Morris both struck half-centuries, scoring 62 and 52 respectively, in a solid 96-run partnership for the first wicket, ensuring no late drama.
Innings quickly unraveled
On the first day, Barbados posted 200 for nine declared. Jamaica began the final day at 72 for two, but their innings quickly unraveled as they lost six wickets for just 39 runs.
Steve Wedderburn, who resumed on 39, failed to add to his overnight score, edging a wide delivery from fast bowler Jatario Prescod (3-51) behind the stumps in the first over of the day. Jamaica suffered another setback when Wedderburn’s overnight partner, Matthew Morgan, was bowled by a superb googly from leg-spinner Saurav Worrell (3-24) after adding just five to his 28.
With wickets falling steadily, Jamaica declared their innings before lunch, trailing Barbados by 73 runs on first innings.
Barbados then took control
Barbados then took control. Jordan faced 132 balls, hitting three fours and two sixes, while Morris struck six fours off 95 deliveries, frustrating Jamaica’s bowlers.
Late in the day, Morris edged a wide delivery from leg-spinner Tamarie Redwood, ending his stay at the crease. Joshua Dorne (29 not out) then joined Jordan to add 40 for the second wicket, followed by an unbroken 36-run partnership with Zion Brathwaite (22 not out), ensuring Barbados remained dominant.
Barbados’ victory, secured through consistent performances and strategic play, earned them the coveted Rising Stars U19 title, marking a significant achievement for the team and their supporters.
