Dorne, Van Lange lead West Indies U19s to victory

The seven-match youth One-Day International (ODI) series got off to an exciting start on Sunday as the West Indies Under-19s secured a well-crafted four-wicket victory over England Under-19s, chasing down a target of 243 with four balls to spare at the National Cricket Stadium, St George’s, Grenada.
England, having won the toss and opting to bat first, began positively through openers Ben Dawkins and Isaac Mohammed. The pair negotiated the new ball confidently, putting on a steady 50-run stand. However, their momentum was checked when Jakeem Pollard struck the first blow, removing Mohammed for 22.

The visitors regained control thanks to a fluent innings from wicketkeeper-batsman Joe Moores, who lit up the morning with an aggressive 59 from just 45 balls, peppered with five boundaries and four towering sixes. Caleb Falconer added a measured 44 off 43 deliveries, while Jack Nelson chipped in with 31 from 27. Despite these contributions, England’s innings faltered in the closing stages, and they were skittled out for 242 in 46.2 overs.
Pollard, Shaquan Belle, Kunal Tilokani, and Zachary Carter each claimed two wickets, demonstrating disciplined bowling that prevented England from pushing beyond a par score.
In response, the West Indies chase was anchored by a captain’s knock from Joshua Dorne. Leading from the front, Dorne compiled a patient and composed 90 off 119 balls, striking six fours and a cleanly-hit six. His partnership with Guyanese stroke-maker Jonathan Van Lange proved decisive. Van Lange’s brisk 52 from 50 balls, featuring four boundaries and one maximum, provided the perfect support to the skipper.
With the pressure rising in the final overs, Belle delivered a timely cameo, blasting 19 from just nine balls to steer the hosts past the target. The West Indies finished on 246 for 6 in 49.2 overs, sealing a confident victory in the series opener.
Jack Nelson stood out among the England bowlers, finishing with impressive figures of 3 for 50 from his full quota of 10 overs.
The two teams will meet again on Wednesday, November 19, at the same venue, where England will be eager to level the series, while the West Indies look to build on their early advantage.