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By Samuel Peters
Sixteen-year-old all-rounder Matthew Miller has been appointed captain of the Leeward Islands team as they prepare for the Cricket West Indies Rising Stars Under-19 Tournament in St Kitts and Nevis. The talented young cricketer, who recently graduated from Antigua Grammar School as Sportsman of the Year, will lead his squad into the crucial regional competition beginning next week.
Speaking to Observer media about the team’s preparation, Miller expressed confidence in the squad’s readiness. “The feeling in the camp has been quite positive, and there’s been a lot of high intensity throughout the last week as we try to gel as much as possible leading up to the tournament,” he said.
Miller brings valuable recent experience to his captaincy role, having competed in St. Kitts and Nevis over the past few months, which has helped him become familiar with local playing conditions. His impressive track record includes representing Antigua and Barbuda in the Leeward Islands Under-19 Championships, where his team claimed the title. He also led Blue Runners to victory in the Cool and Smooth T20 Tournament.
“Playing in two previous tournaments and winning both has given me valuable experience and confidence on the pitches in St. Kitts,” Miller explained. “This familiarity with the conditions and competition can give me a strong advantage going into the next tournament, and hopefully the players can adapt as well.”
Antigua and Barbuda.
When asked about the composition of his squad and identifying key players for the upcoming tournament, the young captain demonstrated a mature leadership perspective. “I think everyone is a key player and everyone has a part to play in this tournament,” Miller stated. “So, it’s all about playing as a team and trying to win games throughout the tournament.”
Looking ahead to the Men’s Under-19 Cricket World Cup scheduled for Zimbabwe and Namibia in 2026, Miller expressed cautious optimism about his selection prospects for the West Indies squad. “I know the competition is tough, but I’m confident in my skills and progress so far,” he said. “I’ve been building experience and staying focused, and I believe I have what it takes to earn a spot on the team for the next World Cup.”
The Leeward Islands will face the tournament without experienced player Jewel Andrew, who has progressed to the West Indies Senior Team after several years in the Under-19 setup. Miller acknowledged the significant impact of losing such an influential teammate.
“It will be a big loss for the team. He is one of the most experienced, or even the most experienced Under-19 players we have, having played at this level for many years,” Miller reflected. “He would have been a great asset to the team, but now it’s an opportunity for someone else to step up and make their mark in this tournament.”
The complete Leeward Islands Under-19 squad includes: Matthew Miller, De-Antre Drew, Tanez Francis, Micah McKenzie, Mekaili Tonge, Amoree Jones, Carlton Pluck, Tyanick Honore, Devanand Singh, Isra-el Morton, Kunal Tilokani, Lawshorn Bergan, Eirette Richards and Caiden Francis.
The Leeward Islands will begin their campaign on July 3rd with a match against regional rivals, the Windward Islands, at Conaree Park. Three days later, they will face the United States of America (2) at St. Mary’s Park in Canyon, as they look to make their mark in this important developmental tournament.
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