ST JOHN’S, Antigua, CMC – West Indies cricket chief Julian Hunte has lauded the Windward Islands’ historic capture of the regional Under-19 Challenge title on Monday.
The Windwards hammered neighbours Leewards by seven wickets at Beausejour Cricket Stadium, after their bowlers produced a clinical performance on Sunday’s second day to set up the result.
“I want to congratulate captain Audy Alexander, coach Raymond Duncan, manager Sean Edwards, and all the members of the Windward Islands team for their outstanding performance in the TCL Group Under-19 Challenge three-day tournament,” said Hunte.
“It is a result of hard work and commitment which led to the Windward players coming together and performing at their best. It was truly an overall team effort.”
The Windwards finished on 39 points, nine ahead of Trinidad and Tobago who pulled off a crushing 133 runs over Guyana on the final day of the final round of matches.
It was their first title in 10 years and it came after their outing in Jamaica last year proved less than memorable when they finished one from the bottom of the standings.
“Last year the Windwards had a rough time of it but this year they rebounded in fine style. Every time the chips were down someone came to the fore with the star performance the side required,” Hunte said.
“I urge the team to continue to strive for excellence, both on and off the field, and be good ambassadors for the game of cricket.”
He added: “Congratulations should also go out to the administration at the Windwards Board and everyone in the sub-region who has played a part in the development of these young men. This victory is a triumph for all those who have contributed to the cause.”
Windwards will now go in search of the double when the One-Day phase of the tournament bowls off tomorrow.
