Australia face Pakistan in the second semifinal of the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup at Willowmoore Park in Benoni, South Africa. Pakistan were bowled out for 179 in the first innings, as they suffered a batting collapse early in the match. Three-time champions Australia need to chase 180 to beat Pakistan and face India in Sunday’s final.
The Australians were in total control of the match from the beginning, as their pace bowlers as well as spinners contributed in the first innings. Straker was the pick of the bowlers, finishing with figures of 6-24, while Beardman, Vidler, MacMillan, and Campbell also picked a wicket each. For Pakistan, Awais and Minhas scored 52 each, while eight of their players were dismissed for a single-digit score in a disappointing batting display.
Straker picked up another wicket, finishing with figures of 6-24 after 9.5 overs, contributing to Australia’s dominant performance. Pakistan’s Zeeshan was the last player to be dismissed, leaving them at 179-9. Despite a brief resistance from Ubaid, Pakistan’s innings concluded at 179, setting a target of 180 for Australia to win the match.
As the match continues, the tension is high as Australia prepares to chase the target set by Pakistan. With the potential to face India in the final, the pressure is on for both teams as they battle it out on the field. Stay tuned for more updates as the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup semifinal unfolds.
