Dawkins shines in Young Lions defeat

England Men U19s suffered a 98-run defeat to West Indies Men U19s in the fourth Youth ODI in Grenada to go 3-1 down in the seven-game series.

Kent opener Ben Dawkins struck 78 but regular wickets meant the Young Lions were bowled out for 182 in pursuit of the hosts’ 280 for seven.

Luke Hands took three for 63 and skipper Farhan Ahmed, again opening the bowling with his finger spin, was impressive with two for 37 from his 10 overs.

Ahmed produced the ball of the day to bowl Brendan Boodoo through the gate and leave the hosts 121 for four. Joshua Dorne and Jonathan van Lange then again played decisive roles, both scoring 80 and adding 120 for the fifth wicket.

Alex Green bowled well for his one for 38 from 10 overs and induced a rare false shot from Van Lange to be caught by Dawkins on the rope in the late overs.

The Young Lions chase was then on course when Dawkins and Caleb Falconer (32) added 67 for the fourth wicket, before the Middlesex right-hander was bowled aiming a reverse sweep at leg-spinner Israel Morton.

Left-arm wrist spinner Vitel Lawes had Dawkins, who struck seven four and a six, stumped on his way to four for 35 before Shaquan Belle (three for 34) wrapped up the win.

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