There is much to be proud of as it relates to emerging talent on the island. One such area is the pool of young talented cricketers plying their trade on various national teams.
That was evident as the National Under 23 Cricket team engaged Dominica recently.
The opening match of the Windward Islands Under 23 Bilateral Series between Saint Lucia and host Dominica was affected by persistent rain, which caused a delayed start and reduced the contest to 25 overs. Despite the interruptions, fans at the Botanic Gardens on Thursday, December 4, 2025, were treated to an exciting display of young regional talent.
Saint Lucia won the toss and chose to send the Nature Boys of Dominica in to bat. The opening pair, Captain Stephan Pascal and Lluvio Charles, provided a solid foundation with a positive start. However, once the first wicket fell, Dominica’s innings unraveled quickly, with wickets tumbling in domino fashion.
At the end of their allotted overs, Dominica posted 139 all out, with Pascal top-scoring on 42 and Charles contributing 33.
Saint Lucia’s bowlers kept the pressure on throughout the innings. Aaron Joseph was the standout, claiming three wickets for 19 runs, while Keon Gaston picked up two for 16. Shawnil Edward chipped in with one for 10, Tarrique Edward took one for 22, and Lee John added one for 24.
Chasing 140 for victory, Saint Lucia lost a few early wickets, giving Dominica a glimmer of hope. However, that momentum was short-lived as the hard-hitting Jaiden Elibox took charge of the chase with a commanding knock.
His unbeaten 87 was the defining innings of the match, supported by Tarrique Edward’s 25, as Saint Lucia reached the target in just 16.2 overs, finishing at 140 for five.
Dominica’s bowlers fought hard, with Delaney Alexander taking two wickets for 15 runs, Kyron Phillip grabbing two for 18, and captain Stephan Pascal adding one for 26. In the end, though, Elibox’s brilliance ensured Saint Lucia claimed victory in the opening clash, setting the tone for an electrifying tournament ahead.