Dominica's Stephan Pascal hits maiden half century in ICC U19 world cup

After Kavem Hodge, Dominica's Stephan Pascal also hit a half-century to help the West Indies U-19s secure a narrow two-wicket victory over England.

The victory of the team confirmed their advancement through to the Super Sixes stage at the ICC U-19 World Cup at the JB Marks Oval in South Africa.

This was Pascal's maiden half-century in the Under 19 match, and he was thrilled to have contributed to the match. He is also serving as the captain of the West Indies team for this tournament.

Even during the fielding, Stephan Pascal jumps up and holds onto a good catch to send back the half-centurion Jamie Dunk.

Prime Minister of Dominica Dr Roosevelt Skerrit, also congratulated the young player and said, "Congratulations to Dominica's Stephan Pascal on his maiden half-century as the West Indies beat England in the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup. Good going, Skipper!"

In addition to this, PM Skerrit also expressed his best wishes to Nathan Edward of Dominican parentage for his huge contribution of runs and wickets to Windy's effort.

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Several citizens of Dominica took to Facebook to congratulate the cricketer and extend their best wishes to him for future matches.

"The support Stephan is getting from his family is encouraging. Congrats, Stephan and the West Indies team. Continue making us proud. What a birthday gift for Stephie," wrote a user named Regina Walsh.

Another user said, Congratulations, Stephan. Well played! Big game. Just wished you had stayed till the end, but it is what it is. Stay focused match by match, and let's bring home that trophy."

Highlights of the Match

On Friday in South Africa, West Indies chased down England's challenging 192 all out from 46.3 overs. West Indies gleefully reached 196-8 with 9 overs remaining. They now have two wins from three games at the global International Cricket Council (ICC) showpiece.

Skipper Stephan Pascal led the way with a solid 58, while Nathan Edwards was equally responsible for making 49 not out, which contained 5 fours and a six. In the context of things, Jordan Johnson hit an important 31 as off-spinner Tazeem Ali grabbed 3-34 from his maximum ten overs.

Earlier, West Indies won the toss and invited the English youths to take the first strike on a responsive pitch.

Hamza Shaikh top-scored with 54 as left-arm seamer Edwards picked up 3-28 in 6.3 tidy overs. Edwards was named player-of-the-match for his all-round brilliance. His team won by two wickets.

Meanwhile, West Indies started their campaign with a defeat against the hosts but bounced back to defeat Scotland in their Group B fixture.

Sixteen teams are participating. The championship game is billed for February 11. India are the defending champions.