Australia team earned a narrow 1-wicket win over Pakistan in the second semi-final of the ongoing ICC U19 World Cup 2024 in South Africa. They will now clash on Sunday with defending champions India.
The match, held at Willowmoore Park in Benoni, South Africa, saw the Australian U19 team successfully chase down a target of 180 runs after Pakistan was bowled out for 179 in their first innings.
Australia captain Hugh Weibgen had won the toss and chosen to bowl first. His bowlers did the work as Tom Straker picked 6/24, as Pakistan was bowled out for 179 runs. For the Pakistan team, Azan Awais and Arafat Minhas made 52 runs each.
In reply, Australia opener Harry Dixon made 50, but Pakistan bowlers fought back brilliantly. At 102/5, it seems Pakistan would turn out victors, but Oliver Peake (49), Tom Campbell (25) and Ref McMillan (19*) took Australia past the winning line in the last over as they won by 1 wicket in the end.
Ali Raza picked 4/34 and Arafat Minhas picked two wickets for Pakistan.
Here is the winning moment for Australian team:
However, on the other hand, the Pakistani side was distraught and heartbroken at the loss. The youngsters gave it their all to defend a below par total, and almost pulled off the win.
