Sri Lanka Under-19s pulled off a nerve-shredding one-wicket win to level their seven-match Youth ODI series against West Indies in Antigua on Tuesday.
Chasing 202 at the Coolidge Cricket Ground, the visitors appeared on course for a routine finish before a flurry of wickets transformed the contest into a nail-biting finale. Ultimately, Sri Lanka crept across the line with two overs and a single wicket to spare, sealing a dramatic 1-1 scoreline in the series.
Dorne anchors hosts’ innings
Earlier, West Indies’ modest total of 201 was held together almost entirely by captain Joshua Dorne, who struck a commanding 82 under pressure. His innings proved vital after the hosts endured a nightmare start, slipping to six for two when openers Zachary Carter (1) and Micah Greenidge (0) fell cheaply.
Though Dorne found fleeting support from Brendan Boodoo (28) and Jonathan van Lange (26), the innings never produced a defining partnership. The Sri Lankan bowlers remained disciplined throughout, with leg-spinner Vigneshwaran Akash dismantling the middle order to finish with an excellent 3-30.
Sri Lanka ride the waves
The visitors’ reply was steadied by skipper Vimath Dimsara, who struck 45 to provide the backbone of the innings after West Indies reduced them to 98 for four. His composure, coupled with a patient 30 from Chamika Heenatigala, restored balance before the West Indies’ bowlers threatened to turn the game upside down.
Carter (3-42) and Boodoo (2-27) spearheaded the home attack, producing breakthroughs that kept the Caribbean side within touching distance of an improbable defense. As wickets tumbled and pressure mounted, Sri Lanka leaned on Sethmika Seneviratne, whose unbeaten 20 under immense strain proved the difference.
With one wicket in hand and just 12 balls remaining, Seneviratne calmly ushered his team to safety, ensuring Sri Lanka snatched a thriller and leveled the series.
The result leaves the contest delicately balanced heading into Thursday’s third Youth ODI at Coolidge. Both sides have now tasted victory in contrasting fashion, setting the stage for what promises to be a fiercely fought remainder of the series.
