In a thrilling crescendo to the U19 Cricket World Cup warm-up matches, India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh emerged victorious, delivering a riveting display of talent and determination.
India faced off against Sri Lanka in a nail-biting clash, ultimately securing a resounding seven-wicket victory. Captain Uday Saharan showcased his prowess with a remarkable second consecutive fifty. Opting to bat, Sri Lanka, powered by Dinura Kalupahana’s impactful half-century, set a challenging target of 209. However, Musheer Khan’s stellar three-wicket haul restricted them to 208/9. Despite an early stumble, India smoothly sailed to victory, thanks to the crucial partnership between Saharan and Musheer.
The New Zealand vs. Scotland encounter proved to be a one-sided affair, with New Zealand dominating to claim a commanding 130-run win. Captain Oscar Jackson stole the limelight with an unbeaten century, guiding New Zealand to a massive total of 306/9. Scotland struggled in response, with New Zealand’s bowlers Tsourgas, Clarke, and Tewatiya combining forces to limit them to a modest 176.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh sent shockwaves through the tournament by stunning Australia with a five-wicket triumph. Rohanat Doullah Borson emerged as the hero, clinching a four-wicket haul, including a mesmerizing hat-trick. Despite Australia’s promising start, they faltered to 149/9, with Borson and skipper Mahfuzur Rahman Rabby wreaking havoc. Bangladesh sealed the deal with a late surge, highlighted by Chowdhury Md Rizwan’s unbeaten 53.
The clash between England and Pakistan provided its own dose of drama, ending in a nine-run DLS victory for England in a rain-affected match. Hamza Shaikh’s well-crafted fifty set the tone for England’s innings, culminating in a total of 183/6. Pakistan, with several batters retiring after solid starts, fell just short. Dominic Kelly’s impressive 3/28 and Eddie Jack’s crucial wicket secured England’s triumph in the warm-up.
As the curtain falls on this action-packed finale, the stage is set for an electrifying U19 Cricket World Cup, promising intense battles and unforgettable moments on the cricketing arena.
