Afghanistan delivered a commanding all-round performance to defeat the West Indies by 138 runs in their ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup clash.
After winning the toss and opting to bat, Afghanistan got off to a strong start as openers Khalid Ahmadzai and Osman Sadat laid a solid foundation with an 86-run partnership. Vitel Lawes provided the West Indies with a breakthrough, triggering a brief comeback that included two additional wickets.
Captain Mehboob Taskin then joined Sadat at the crease and steadied the innings. The pair added 77 runs, with Sadat anchoring the innings with a well-crafted 88. Guided by their skipper, Afghanistan went on to post an imposing total of 262 for 6 from their allotted 50 overs.
For the West Indies, Jakeem Pollard and Vitel Lawes were the standout bowlers, claiming three wickets apiece.
In reply, the West Indies were immediately put under pressure by Afghanistan’s disciplined bowling attack, losing three wickets within the first five overs. Jewel Andrew fought a lone battle for the Caribbean side, scoring a valiant half-century, but lacked support at the other end.
The Afghan bowlers maintained relentless pressure, eventually dismissing the West Indies for 124. Wahidullah Zadran and Khatir Stanikzai each claimed three wickets, while Nooristani Omarzai was the standout performer with four wickets to seal a comprehensive victory.
With the win, Afghanistan advance to the Super Six stage and will face Tanzania in their next match on Wednesday. West Indies, meanwhile, will look to rebound when they take on South Africa on Thursday.