At the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua, the West Indies Under-19s won the toss and elected to field first in the 5th ODI against Sri Lanka’s U-19.
Sri Lanka’s innings never truly found rhythm, despite a few promising contributions. Dimantha Mahavithana top-scored with 38, while Chamika Heenatigala added a fighting 36 and Kavija Gamage chipped in with 22. However, consistent breakthroughs from the West Indies bowling attack ensured the visitors struggled to build a big partnership.
The standout performers with the ball were Shaquan Belle and Aadian Racha, who both claimed three wickets apiece, dismantling the middle and lower order to bowl Sri Lanka out for 172 in 48 overs.
The West Indies’ chase got off to a shaky start with Zachary Carter dismissed in the second over for just one. However, a composed 104-run partnership between Earshino Fontaine (48) and Micah Greenidge (40) steadied the innings. Their strike rotation frustrated the visitors, even without heavy boundary-hitting.
Momentum shifted when both Fontaine and Greenidge fell in quick succession, opening the door for Sri Lanka. The visitors tightened the screws further, dismissing captain Joshua Dorne for 11 and sparking a collapse that saw wickets tumble.
With the game in the balance, Guyanese batter Johnathan Van Lange (24*) and all-rounder Aadian Racha (17*) showed remarkable composure, stitching together a crucial unbeaten stand to guide the hosts home. West Indies reached 173 for 8 in 47.4 overs, clinching victory with 14 balls to spare.
The two sides will remain in Antigua for the 6th ODI, scheduled for September 12, 2025, at the same venue.
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