Estwick hails mettle of Young Windies

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, CMC – West Indies Under-19s coach Roddy Estwick has praised the character of his side after they beat Australia’s Under-19s in their one-off three-day “Test” here Tuesday.

Roddy Estwick

The Young Windies wrapped up an exciting four-wicket win to follow up a 2-1 triumph in the preceding three-match one-day series.

“This was a superb tour for these young men. They did all that was asked of them. Throughout the series – in the three-day match and the three limited-overs matches – they showed great commitment and displayed their talent. It was a wonderful overall team effort,” Estwick said.

“After losing the first one-day match they bounced back to win the next two matches and that took character and determination. They also played a superb brand of cricket in the three-day match to register a comprehensive victory.”

He continued: “Every time we found ourselves in a bit of trouble and needed a major performance we got one. Someone always stepped up to do the job for the team and that was pleasing.
“We have some very mature players who handled the pressure very well, players who are willing to battle through tough situations. They all had the correct approach. It was great to watch.”

Playing at the ICC Global Cricket Academy, West Indies bowled Australia out for 228 after the Aussies resumed the final day on 54 without loss, still 22 runs behind on first innings.

Seamer Derone Davis (3-38) was the leading wicket-taker, ending the match with figures of six for 99.

Set 150 to win, the Windies reached 153 for six shortly after tea with opener and skipper Kraigg Brathwaite top scoring with 46 to follow-up his brilliant unbeaten 168 in the first innings.

Estwick said what was more admirable was the way the side adjusted to the foreign conditions.

“We didn’t just win the series. What was also very important to note was the fact that the players all adjusted to the foreign conditions and equipped themselves very well,” Estwick pointed out.

“These were very positive signs and showed that we have players capable of performing well away from home.

“We are building a team as we look ahead to the World Cup next year. We have started our preparation and the players will get the chance to play in the regional Under-19 tournament later this year to enhance their chances and impress the selectors.”

West Indies Under-19s are expected back in the Caribbean on Saturday.