TRELAWNY, Jamaica — West Indies A survived a five-wicket haul from England Lions spinner Jack Leach to eke out a two-wicket win in a nerve-wracking finale to the opening four-day “Test” at Trelawny Multi-purpose Stadium today.

Victory gives West Indies a one-nil lead heading into the second match at Sabina Park in Kingston, which begins on Sunday.

Scores: Lions 252 (107.5 ovs) & 132 (59.3 ovs); Windies A 279 (96 ovs) & 108-8 (29.4 ovs)

West Indies A entered Wednesday’s final day on 31-1, needing 75 runs for the win, but slow left-arm orthodox bowler Leach claimed 5-26 to rattle the hosts.

Although it was Jomel Warrican who won the man of the match award after his heroic exploits with bat and ball, and Shane Dowrich starred with a first-innings 119, it was Rahkeem Cornwall — scorer of a 12-ball 14 not out— who saved the day.

His powerful four through cover off wrist-spinner Mason Crane hauled West Indies A over the line.

West Indies A Captain Kieran Powell earlier made a second-innings top score of 30.

Sanjay Myers