⚫India vs New Zealand
Musheer Khan Shines in Dominant Win
In a spectacular display of talent and skill, Musheer Khan’s outstanding century, his second in the U-19 World Cup, guided India to a convincing victory over New Zealand in their Super 6 encounter at Mangaung Oval in Bloemfontein.
Dominant Batting Display
Musheer’s remarkable 131 runs off 126 balls, embellished with 13 fours and 3 sixes, set the stage for India’s total of 295/8. Despite the early loss of Arshin Kulkarni, Adarsh Singh’s half-century and a solid partnership with Musheer laid a strong foundation. The skipper, Uday Saharan, contributed with an 87-run partnership, ensuring India set a challenging target.
Clinical Bowling Performance
India’s bowlers, led by Saumy Pandey’s four-wicket haul, dominated New Zealand’s innings from the start. The Kiwis were rattled with only 22 runs on the board as Pandey and Raj Limbani orchestrated the early collapse. Musheer Khan also showcased his all-around skills, contributing with the ball and securing New Zealand’s fate as they were bundled out for a mere 81 runs in 28.1 overs.
Brief scores: India 295/8 in 50 overs (Musheer Khan 131, Adarsh Singh 52; Mason Clarke 4-62) beat New Zealand 81 in 28.1 overs (Oscar Jackson 19; Saumy Pandey 4-19, Musheer Khan 2-10) by 214 runs.
⚫Sri Lanka vs West Indies
West Indies Triumph in Thrilling Finish
In a nail-biting encounter at Diamond Oval in Kimberley, West Indies secured their third consecutive victory, overcoming Sri Lanka by three wickets in the ICC U-19 World Cup.
Sri Lanka’s Battling Innings
Sri Lanka, opting to bat, faced early setbacks but Dinura Kalupahana’s patient half-century and a crucial partnership with Supun Waduge guided them to a respectable total of 231. Despite West Indies running through the middle order, Malsha Tharupathi’s contribution helped Sri Lanka cross the 200-mark, providing their bowlers a fighting chance.
West Indies’ Thrilling Chase
West Indies faced initial hurdles, losing a couple of wickets early on. However, Stephan Pascal’s solid start and Steve Wedderburn’s impressive 61 set the stage for a thrilling chase. Sri Lanka fought back, creating nervous moments, but Nathan Sealy and Tarrique Edward ensured West Indies reached the target in the final over.
Brief scores: Sri Lanka 231 in 50 overs (Dinura Kalupahana 53, Malsha Tharupathi 42; Raneico Smith 4-47) lost to West Indies 232/7 in 49.3 overs (Steve Wedderburn 61, Jordan Johnson 39; Vishwa Lahiru 2-32) by 3 wickets.
⚫Pakistan vs Ireland
Saad Baig Leads Pakistan to a Hard-fought Win
In a closely contested match at Senwes Park in Potchefstroom, Ireland pushed Pakistan to the limit, but Saad Baig’s leadership guided his team to a victory with three wickets in hand.
Ireland’s Spirited Fight
Ireland faced early struggles, losing wickets in quick succession and finding themselves at 63/6. John McNally’s resilient half-century, supported by Harry Dyer, helped Ireland post a challenging total of 181. Despite being 158/9 at one stage, Oliver Riley’s contribution ensured they finished with 180-plus.
Saad Baig’s All-round Brilliance
Pakistan encountered early setbacks in their chase, but Azan Awais and Saad Baig steadied the ship. However, quick wickets put them under pressure at 96/5. The cool-headed Saad Baig, with an unbeaten 57, guided Pakistan to victory alongside Haroon Arshad’s crucial contribution.
Brief scores: Ireland 181 in 48.4 overs (John McNally 53, Harry Dyer 31; Ubaid Shah 3-31) lost to Pakistan 182/7 in 43.4 overs (Ahmad Hassan 57*; Harry Dyer 4-35) by 3 wickets.
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