Shaquan Belle's 6-Wicket Haul Powers West Indies to Dominant 55-Run Win Over South Africa at U19 World Cup

The West Indies Under-19 team delivered a comprehensive performance to defeat South Africa by 55 runs at the ICC U19 Men's Cricket World Cup 2026, securing their passage to the Super Six stage with a display that showcased both batting firepower and bowling excellence.

The Caribbean outfit defended their total of 234 with clinical precision, bundling out South Africa for 179 in just 39 overs. This victory has ignited hopes of a deep tournament run as the young Windies stars continue to announce themselves on the world stage.

Zachary Carter's Match-Defining Century

The foundation of West Indies' victory was laid by the outstanding Zachary Carter, who produced an innings of exceptional quality and power.

Carter hammered a magnificent 114 off 104 deliveries, an innings punctuated by eight boundaries and an equal number of towering sixes. His ability to clear the ropes consistently kept the scoreboard ticking at a healthy rate and provided his team with a competitive total to defend.

The centurion's knock demonstrated the kind of aggressive intent and big-match temperament that can trouble any opposition in the knockout stages. His performance served notice to rival teams that West Indies possess genuine match-winners capable of taking games away from opponents.

Shaquan Belle's Devastating Bowling Spell

While Carter set up the game with the bat, it was Shaquan Belle who delivered the knockout punch with a devastating spell of fast bowling.

Belle returned figures of 6/40 from his 10 overs, systematically dismantling the South African batting order. His ability to pick up wickets at regular intervals never allowed the opposition to build any meaningful partnerships.

Supporting Cast Completes the Rout

Belle received excellent support from his fellow bowlers, who maintained relentless pressure throughout the South African innings:

• Jakeem Pollard: 1/19 - economical and incisive
• Isra-El Morton: 1/27 - consistent line and length
• Vitel Lawes: 1/60 - contributed to the wicket tally

Pollard emphasized the collective nature of their bowling success in post-match reflections.

"It was a good bowling performance from the boys. We bowled in partnerships."

The young all-rounder also spoke fondly of his connection with Belle:

"It's great to be a part of that bowling attack, because I grew up with Shaquan."

Caribbean Dreams and Semi-Final Ambitions

With their Super Six qualification confirmed, West Indies are setting their sights on loftier goals. The team's ambitions extend well beyond mere participation in the next phase.

"The main focus now is to get through to the semi-finals and I think that if the fellas work hard, we will come out on top."

For Pollard, representing the region on this stage carries special significance:

"This is my first time playing in the World Cup. It would be very good to represent not only Barbados, but the whole Caribbean."

Road Ahead: Super Six Challenge Awaits

West Indies will commence their Super Six campaign against Ireland in Windhoek on Sunday. The match represents the first step in what they hope will be a journey deep into the tournament.

The emergence of talents like Belle and Carter, combined with the team's cohesive bowling unit, gives West Indies genuine reasons for optimism. Their ability to both post and defend competitive totals makes them a dangerous proposition for any opponent.

Looking Forward

As the tournament intensifies, all eyes will be on whether this talented West Indies squad can translate their group stage promise into knockout success. The signs are encouraging, with match-winners across all departments and a growing belief within the camp.

The Super Six stage will test their credentials against stronger opposition, but on current form, West Indies have every reason to believe they can challenge for a semi-final berth and beyond.