The Antigua & Barbuda Youth Cricket Team has made a strong start to their UK and Jersey tour, securing a commanding victory in their opening match against Rollins Cricket Academy. The fixture, held at Frenford Cricket Club in Ilford, saw the Antiguans successfully chase 135, finishing on 137 for 1 to win the match by 9 wickets, marking a confident beginning to their overseas campaign.
Top scorer Tarek Charles led the batting with 47 runs, while teammate Jaylen Francis impressed with the ball, taking one wicket in four overs and conceding just 14 runs to earn the title of top bowler.
The match drew notable support, including Her Excellency Karen-Mae Hill, High Commissioner for Antigua & Barbuda, and Antigua cricket icon Sir Richie Richardson. Both were in attendance to rally behind the team, with Richardson offering encouragement to the young cricketers ahead of the match. Members of the Antigua & Barbuda diaspora in the UK also turned out in support, creating an atmosphere of celebration and pride.
Speaking on their performance, HC Hill said, “The teams today showed exceptional sportsmanship and teamwork.” “We are so proud to have this opportunity to showcase the level of cricketing talent we have in Antigua & Barbuda and hope to one day see these players represent Antigua and Barbuda as part of our national team.”
The youth team, comprising 16 players under the age of 23, is managed by Brent Scotland, with former West Indies cricketer Winston Benjamin serving as the Head Coach. The squad faced West Herts Cricket Club in Watford on Thursday 10 July in their second match, a 50-over fixture as they continue a series of friendly matches across England and Jersey.
Tour schedule:
Friday 11 July – vs Weybridge Cricket Club, Weybridge
Monday 14 July – vs AEP All Stars Team, Nottingham
Wednesday 16 July – vs Jersey
Friday 18 July – vs Jersey
Sunday 20 July – vs ACE Academy, Leicester
