Van Lange, Budhoo named in West Indies U-19 squad for Sri Lanka series

Guyana’s Jonathan Van Lange and Afraz Ali Budhoo have been named in a 16-man West Indies U-19 squad that will host their Sri Lankan counterparts for a seven-match Youth ODI series in Antigua, beginning on August 25.

The team, led by dynamic Barbadian batsman Joshua Dorne, comprises the best performers from the recently concluded regional Under-19 tournament.

Dorne was the standout player, leading Barbados to the title and earning MVP honors with a tournament-high 328 runs.

The series is crucial to the team’s preparation for the 2026 ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup, which will be held in Zimbabwe and Namibia early next year.

“Encounters like these are invaluable to our cricket pathway, as they expose our young players to different styles of play, varying conditions, and the intensity that comes with international opposition,” said Cricket West Indies Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe.

“This tour represents a development opportunity for both teams—allowing our players to test their skills, build confidence, and understand the standards required to excel at the next level.”

The first four matches will be played at the Coolidge Cricket Ground before the series concludes at the iconic Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium.

Sri Lanka’s squad will arrive on August 25 for a five-day preparation period before the first ball is bowled on August 30.

The regional side will also contest a tri-series with England and the USA later in the year to further aid its World Cup preparations.

West Indies Under-19 Squad: Joshua Dorne (captain), Shaquan Belle, Brendan Boodoo, Tyriek Bryan, Afraz Ali Budhoo, Zachary Carter, Earsinho Fontaine, R’Jai Gittens, Micah Greenidge, Vitel Lawes, Pajay Nelson, Matthew Miller, Isra-el Morton, Jakeem Pollard, Aadian Racha, Jonathan Van Lange.

Series Schedule

• 1st ODI: August 30 – Coolidge Cricket Ground
• 2nd ODI: September 2 – Coolidge Cricket Ground
• 3rd ODI: September 4 – Coolidge Cricket Ground
• 4th ODI: September 7 – Coolidge Cricket Ground
• 5th ODI: September 9 – Sir Vivian Richards Stadium
• 6th ODI: September 12 – Sir Vivian Richards Stadium
• 7th ODI: September 15 – Sir Vivian Richards Stadium