The young West Indies cricketers will begin the defence of their title when they face host new Zealand in their first game of the 2018 ICC under 19 cricket world Cup at Bay Oval, Tauranga.

The game starting at 8 o clock this evening Jamaica time will be a day/night affair

This showdown will have plenty riding on it as it will almost certainly determine who finishes top of the pool, or who advances onto the Super League last eight phase, should the young ‘windies’ rack up some early victories.

As part of their preparation the ‘windies prevailed against South Africa and Zimbabwe in two hard fought bilateral series.

In addition the squad endured an eleven day training camp in St. Kitts and Nevis prior to their journey to New Zealand

West Indies under 19 captain Emmanuel Stewart says they are of the view that they can successfully defend their title.

In other opening day matches Pakistan will play Afghanistan, Zimbabwe takes on Paupa New Guinea while Bangladesh oppose Namibia.