The 2026 Men’s U19 World Cup kicked off in Windhoek with a statement performance from the West Indies. Facing off against Tanzania, the Caribbean side overcame a steady start from their opponents to secure a commanding five-wicket victory, immediately vaulting to the top of Group D. While the headlines belonged to the West Indies’ clinical chase, the match was truly defined by a dramatic mid-innings collapse that saw Tanzania lose their grip on the contest.
Clinical Bowling Attack Triggers Tanzanian Collapse
After winning the toss and electing to bowl, the West Indies were initially forced onto the back foot. Tanzania’s opening duo, Dylan Thakrar (26) and Darpan Jobanputra (19), showed remarkable composure, frustrating the new-ball attack with a 53-run partnership. The breakthrough finally arrived in the 14th over via medium-pacer Jonathan Van Lange, a moment that fundamentally shifted the momentum of the game.
What followed was a masterclass in pressure bowling. Shaquan Belle became the catalyst for Tanzania’s downfall; after taking the catch to break the opening stand, he personally accounted for three quick wickets in just three overs—including the dismissal of Thakrar and a sharp run-out of Ayaan Shariff.
The middle and lower order had no answer for the variety of the West Indies attack. Left-arm wristspinner Vitel Lawes was particularly devastating, slicing through the tail to finish with figures of 3-23. Tanzania’s innings eventually folded for a modest 122 in the 34th over, leaving their bowlers with a mountain to climb.
Francis and Andrew Anchor the West Indies Chase
The West Indies’ pursuit of 123 started with a slight wobble when opener Zachary Carter fell early to Augustino Mwamele. However, any hopes of a Tanzanian upset were quickly extinguished by a dominant 80-run partnership between Tanez Francis (52) and Jewel Andrew (44). Francis played the anchor role to perfection, reaching a half-century and ensuring the run rate never became an issue.
Despite a brief period of chaos where the West Indies lost four wickets in a three-over span—falling from a position of total comfort to 105 for 5—the result was never truly in doubt. They reached the target with 29 overs to spare, providing a significant boost to their Net Run Rate early in the tournament.
Meanwhile, in Group C, the story was much shorter. The highly anticipated clash between co-hosts Zimbabwe and Scotland at the Takashinga Sports Club was abandoned without a ball being bowled. Both teams shared a point each, turning their focus to upcoming high-stakes fixtures against England and Pakistan respectively.
