West Indies U19 spinners shine in crucial super six victory over Ireland

Windhoek [Namibia], January 26 (ANI): West Indies Under-19s showcased trademark Caribbean resilience in a spirited 25-run win over Ireland by DLS method in a rain-affected Super Six encounter at the ICC Under-19 Men's Cricket World Cup 2026.

In a contest that showcased the fighting spirit of West Indies cricket, it was the spin duo of Micah McKenzie and Vitel Lawes who turned the tide and grabbed six wickets between them to steer the team to victory and keep them on course for the semi-finals.

After winning the toss and electing to bat first, West Indies were 67/3 within the first 16 overs thanks to Ireland's disciplined bowling attack, but the Caribbean side's resilience soon shone through.

Wicketkeeper-batter Jewel Andrew's composed 82-ball 66, featured four fours and as many sixes and provided the stability the innings needed, while his crucial 67-run fourth-wicket partnership with Jonathan van Lange (28) swung momentum back in West Indies' favour.

Lower-order contributions from Aadian Racha (28) and Vitel Lawes (18) helped take the eventual total past 200, and West Indies were eventually bowled out for 226 in the 47th over.

Ireland's run chase began promisingly with opener James West leading the charge. With 82/2 on the board with 18 overs bowled, Ireland appeared well set, but West Indies' spinners soon dominated.

McKenzie ripped through Ireland's middle order with figures of 4/36 from his 10 overs. Vitel Lawes complemented him superbly with 2/41 while they maintained firm control on Ireland's scoring rate.

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