ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – The future of West Indies cricket will be on full display later this month when the region’s most talented youth cricketers take on Sri Lanka in a seven-match Youth One-Day International (ODI) series from August 25 to September 16.
All matches will be staged in Antigua, with the first four contests scheduled for Coolidge Cricket Ground before the series shifts to the historic Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium for the final three encounters.
Dorne leads a well-balanced squad
Barbadian batting prodigy Joshua Dorne, fresh off a tournament-best 328 runs and MVP honors in the Rising Stars Under-19 Championship, will captain the regional side. Described as a dynamic stroke-maker with a mature head on young shoulders, Dorne is tasked with guiding a group that blends attacking firepower with disciplined bowling.
The squad, drawn from the standout performers of the recently concluded regional Under-19 tournament, reflects the strength and depth of Caribbean youth cricket.
Building toward the world stage
Beyond the immediate series, the matches form a critical part of preparation for the 2026 ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup, set to take place in Zimbabwe and Namibia next January. Cricket West Indies (CWI) has outlined this series—and an upcoming tri-nation event later this year involving England and the USA—as pivotal steps in shaping a side capable of competing at the highest youth level.
Sri Lanka brings proud tradition
Sri Lanka’s Under-19 squad, renowned for producing generations of international talent, arrives in Antigua on August 25. They will undergo a five-day preparation camp before locking horns with the young Windies. Known for their flair, technique, and tactical discipline, the visitors promise to provide a stern test for the Caribbean hopefuls.
CWI’s vision for youth development
CWI Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe underscored the importance of such contests, emphasizing both development and opportunity.
“We are delighted to welcome the Sri Lanka Under-19 team to the Caribbean for what promises to be a highly competitive and rewarding series,” Bascombe said. “Encounters like these are invaluable to our cricket pathway, as they expose our young players to different styles of play, varying conditions, and the intensity that comes with international opposition.”
He added: “Beyond the immediate competition, this tour represents a development opportunity for both teams—allowing our players to test their skills, build confidence, and understand the standards required to excel at the next level.”
Fan access and match details
All matches begin at 9:30 a.m. and conclude by 5:00 p.m., ensuring full days of action for supporters. Fans across the region and beyond can follow the series live via the Windies Cricket YouTube channel, while scorecards will be updated on the CWI Match Centre at www.windiescricket.com.
Sri Lanka departs Antigua on September 16, bringing down the curtain on what promises to be a series brimming with skill, learning, and international promise.
West Indies Under-19 squad: Joshua Dorne (captain), Shaquan Belle, Brendan Boodoo, Tyriek Bryan, Afraz Ali Budhoo, Zachary Carter, Earsinho Fontaine, R’Jai Gittens, Micah Greenidge, Vitel Lawes, Pajay Nelson, Matthew Miller, Isra-el Morton, Jakeem Pollard, Aadian Racha, Johnathan Van Lange.
Team Management: Head Coach – Rohan Nurse; Assistant Coaches – Jerome Taylor & Dalton Polius; Physiotherapist – Kwayne Dalrymple; Strength & Conditioning Coach – Shayne Cooper; Manager – Clint St Hill.
Match schedule
- 1st ODI: 30 August – Coolidge Cricket Ground
- 2nd ODI: 2 September – Coolidge Cricket Ground
- 3rd ODI: 4 September – Coolidge Cricket Ground
- 4th ODI: 7 September – Coolidge Cricket Ground
- 5th ODI: 9 September – Sir Vivian Richards Stadium
- 6th ODI: 12 September – Sir Vivian Richards Stadium
- 7th ODI: 15 September – Sir Vivian Richards
