Eight talented young cricketers from St. Kitts and Nevis have been selected for the provisional Leeward Islands Tropical Wave Under-19 squad, aiming to secure their spots for the upcoming Cricket West Indies Rising Stars Under-19 50-over Championship. This significant regional tournament is slated to run from July 9 to July 23, 2026, providing a crucial platform for these emerging athletes to showcase their skills on a wider stage.
Player Selections and Departures
The selection process involved players from both St. Kitts and Nevis, with representatives from each island making their way to Antigua for training and further evaluation. Three players from Nevis were named to the final squad and departed for the training camp on Wednesday, July 1. Five players from St. Kitts were subsequently selected for the provisional Leeward Islands squad and traveled to Antigua on Thursday, July 3.
Nevis Representatives
The three cricketers from Nevis selected for the Leeward Islands Tropical Wave Under-19 squad are:
- Amoree Jones
- Rondre Daniel
- Lythe Browne
Lythe Browne is expected to join Jones and Daniel at the training camp at a later date, completing the Nevis contingent.
St. Kitts Representatives
The St. Kitts Cricket Association officially announced the five players from St. Kitts who earned a place in the provisional squad. These selections were based on their impressive performances during recent player observation matches, which served as a key indicator of their current form and potential.
The five selected cricketers from St. Kitts are:
- Kunal Tilkoni
- Eirette Richards
- Jaheem Clarke
- Lawshorn Bergan
- Kasim Challenger
The Regional Championship
The Cricket West Indies Rising Stars Under-19 50-over Championship is a highly anticipated event in the youth cricket calendar. It brings together the best young talent from across the Caribbean, offering a competitive environment that fosters growth and development.
Competing Teams
The Leeward Islands Under-19 team is set to face stiff competition from several other regional powerhouses. Their opponents in the championship will include:
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Guyana
- Jamaica
- Barbados
- The Windward Islands
This challenging lineup ensures that the Leeward Islands squad will be tested thoroughly throughout the tournament.
Opportunity and Recognition
The training and selection camp in Antigua represents more than just a pathway to the championship; it’s a vital opportunity for these young cricketers to hone their skills, learn from experienced coaches, and gain valuable experience playing alongside and against some of the region’s most promising talents. The St. Kitts Cricket Association emphasized the significance of this platform for player development.
Official Congratulations and Support
The St. Kitts Cricket Association extended its congratulations to the selected players, acknowledging their hard work and dedication. In a statement, the association conveyed its best wishes: “Congratulations to the players, their coaches, teammates and families on this outstanding achievement. We wish them all the best in Antigua and every success as they prepare for the championship.”
Adding to the accolades, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Denzil L. Douglas, also recognized the five St. Kitts cricketers for their accomplishment. He offered his congratulations and encouraged them to perform their best, aiming to make the nation proud on the regional stage.
Looking Ahead
With the championship drawing near, the selected players are immersed in intensive training, focusing on strategy, fitness, and team cohesion. The journey to the Cricket West Indies Rising Stars Under-19 50-over Championship is a testament to the burgeoning talent within St. Kitts and Nevis, and the nation will be keenly watching as these young athletes strive for success.
