West Indies Under-19 captain Joshua Dorne has set his sights firmly on victory as his team prepares to face Sri Lanka in a seven-match Youth One-Day International series, beginning Saturday, August 30, at the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua.
The talented Barbadian batter, fresh from guiding his island to the regional Under-19 title and earning the tournament’s MVP award, now steps onto the international stage brimming with confidence. Having already gained exposure at the 2024 ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup, Dorne says he feels equipped to lead from the front.
“I think the regional tournament was well put together. With the inclusion of the USA teams, it was a bit more competitive. I managed to reach some of my goals there and now I feel good about this series against Sri Lanka,” he reflected.
Building momentum toward the World Cup
While the upcoming series will serve as vital preparation for the 2026 ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup in Zimbabwe and Namibia, Dorne insists the immediate task is to deliver strong, consistent performances against a well-drilled Sri Lankan side.
“It’s always good to play an international side. I’ve been lucky to have that experience before, so it’s up to me to bring some of that knowledge and help the others who wouldn’t have had that experience yet,” he explained.
“The main goal is to win the series. Once we put together good cricket and hit our targets, I don’t see why we shouldn’t come out victorious.”
Positive energy in the camp
The squad has spent the past week fine-tuning their game under the watchful eye of head coach Rohan Nurse. Training sessions have focused on sharpening discipline, tactical awareness, and adaptability across all formats of the game.
Dorne was quick to highlight the upbeat atmosphere in camp.
“The mood in camp is good. The ‘fellas’ are gelling together very well. There’s a lot of banter off the field and it carries onto the field with positive energy that really drives our sessions,” he said.
He stressed the importance of all-round preparation: “Cricket is a three-dimensional sport, so we’re looking to give 100 per cent in all three categories. Discipline off the field carries onto the field as well. Personally, my role is to do what the team requires at that moment — sometimes digging in and sometimes pushing on depending on what is needed.”
Determination to deliver
As the countdown to the first ball continues, Dorne believes his side’s desire and unity will prove decisive. “We are working hard and you can tell we really want it. For me as captain, my job is to continue to bring the group together. Once we live in harmony, nothing can stop us.”
Series schedule
The first four ODIs will be played at the Coolidge Cricket Ground before the action shifts to the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium for the final three contests. Matches begin at 9:30 AM local time, with free admission for spectators and live streaming available on the Windies Cricket YouTube channel.
Fixtures:
- 1st ODI – August 30 – Coolidge Cricket Ground
- 2nd ODI – September 2 – Coolidge Cricket Ground
- 3rd ODI – September 4 – Coolidge Cricket Ground
- 4th ODI – September 7 – Coolidge Cricket Ground
- 5th ODI – September 9 – Sir Vivian Richards Stadium
- 6th ODI – September 12 – Sir Vivian Richards Stadium
- 7th ODI – September 15 – Sir Vivian Richards Stadium
