Joshua Dorne produced an unbeaten century to guide the West Indies Under-19s to a four-wicket victory over England Under-19s, clinching the seven-match series 4-2 with one game remaining.
Chasing 222 for victory, the young West Indies found themselves in early trouble at 1-1 when St. Kitts’ batting all-rounder Kunal Tilokani strode to the crease. What followed was a masterclass in counterattacking cricket. Tilokani, struck on the lower arm by his first delivery, unleashed a ferocious assault on the English bowling, smashing 49 from just 29 balls with eight fours and a six before falling agonizingly short of his maiden U19 half-century.
But it was Dorne who provided the cornerstone of the chase. The talented Barbadian compiled an outstanding 102 not out from 101 deliveries, striking 10 fours and two sixes in a composed yet aggressive innings. His century ensured the West Indies crossed the line, reaching 222 for six in 38.1 overs.
Earlier, England posted 221 all out in 47.5 overs, with Farhan Ahmed top-scoring with 54 off 76 balls and Joe Moores contributing 42 off 56. Isaac Mohammed added a valuable 45 off 57 before being dismissed lbw by Vitel Lawes.
For the West Indies, the wickets were shared among the bowling attack. Jonathan Van Lange was the pick of the bowlers (4-17) while Matthew Miller (2-15), Lawes (2-38), Jakeem Pollard (1-22), and Micah McKenzie (1-45) also chipped in.
In response, the West Indies lost early wickets, but partnerships flourished. Miller provided solid support with 43 off 48 balls before being run out, while Shaquan Belle remained unbeaten on 14 off 34 to see the Caribbean side home alongside Dorne.
James Minto was the most successful English bowler with 2-48 from six overs, while Manny Lumsden claimed 2-52 from eight overs.
With the series now won, the West Indies Under-19s will look to close out the series when the teams meet for the final match on Monday.