Overview
In a nail-biting encounter during the 2024 U19 World Cup, Australia emerged victorious against Pakistan, securing a place in the final. Tom Straker’s exceptional six-wicket haul and Raf MacMillan’s composed unbeaten innings played pivotal roles in the heart-stopping one-wicket win.
The Roller Coaster Chase
Australia, chasing a target of 180, initially seemed comfortable at 146/5, with Harry Dixon’s fifty and Oliver Peake’s 49 setting the stage. However, a sensational collapse saw them lose four wickets for just 18 runs in 45 balls, leaving them needing 16 more to win with just one wicket remaining. The tension heightened, but MacMillan and Callum Vidler’s partnership managed to steer Australia home with five balls to spare.
Ali Raza’s Impact
Ali Raza’s exceptional bowling performance (4/34) for Pakistan turned the game around in the second spell, giving his team a sudden advantage. Despite Raza’s efforts, Pakistan couldn’t capitalize, missing the chance to set up a finals clash with arch-rivals India. Pakistan’s regrettable batting display on a tricky surface contributed to their downfall.
Pakistan’s Missed Opportunities
Azan Awais and Arafat Minhas displayed fifties, but the lack of substantial partnerships and support from the lower order hindered Pakistan’s total. Straker’s early strikes and later exploits polished off the tail efficiently, restricting Pakistan to an under-par score.
Looking Ahead to the Final
Australia’s narrow escape sets the stage for an exciting final against India at Benoni on Sunday, February 11. As cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the clash between these two cricketing powerhouses, the U19 World Cup promises to conclude with a thrilling finale.
Brief scores: Pakistan 179 in 50 overs (Arafat Minhas 52, Azan Awais 52; Tom Straker 6-24) lost to Australia 181/9 in 49.1 overs (Harry Dixon 50, Oliver Peake 49; Ali Raza 4-34) by one wicket
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