The Cricket West Indies Rising Stars Under-15 Championship got underway at Coolidge Cricket Ground on Tuesday with the Windward Islands securing a convincing eight-wicket victory over the Leeward Islands in the tournament opener.
For the Windward Islands, the bowling honors were shared between Jorden Charles (3/27) and Jeanille Williams (3/21), who both bowled impressive spells. Dylan John (2/15) and Jershaun Joseph (2/17) provided excellent support, maintaining pressure throughout the innings.
Extras contributed significantly to the Leewards total, with 43 runs coming from wides, no-balls, and byes – making up nearly 40 percent of their final score.
Chasing a modest target of 110, the Windward Islands openers set the perfect platform with a solid 63-run partnership. Alex Armstrong anchored the innings with an unbeaten 47 from 81 deliveries, including seven boundaries.
Derwin Lewis provided good support with 25 runs before being run out by Leewards captain J’quan Athanaze. Delroy Tittle maintained the momentum with a quick 11 off 16 balls before Jorden Charles (5 not out) joined Armstrong to guide the Windwards to victory in just 25.5 overs.
This opening defeat will be a significant disappointment for the Leeward Islands team, especially given their pre-tournament confidence. Captain Athanaze and his squad will need to regroup quickly as they prepare for their next fixture against the defending Champions Barbados at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium.
