Posted by AustraliaU19 World Cup Final Berth with Last-Wicket Thriller over Pakistan
Heart-stopping drama unfolded in Benoni as Australia edged past Pakistan by a single wicket in the second U19 World Cup semi-final. Chasing a modest 180, the Aussies nearly squandered their advantage before a last-wicket stand stole victory from the jaws of defeat.
Pakistan‘s batting faltered on a tricky surface, despite half-centuries from Azan Awais and Arafat Minhas. Tom Straker emerged as the wrecker-in-chief, claiming a six-wicket haul to restrict the Asians to 179.
Australia’s chase began smoothly, anchored by fifties from Harry Dixon and Oliver Peake. However, a dramatic collapse saw them lose five wickets for just 18 runs, leaving them staring down the barrel at 164/9.
Enter the unlikely heroes: Raf MacMillan and Callum Vidler. The young duo displayed nerves of steel, stitching together a match-winning 17-run partnership to steer Australia home with five balls to spare.
Pakistan‘s Ali Raza (4/34) had threatened to single-handedly turn the tide with his late burst, but his efforts proved in vain.
Key Takeaways:
- Tom Straker‘s six-wicket haul restricted Pakistan to 179.
- Harry Dixon and Oliver Peake provided good starts for Australia with fifties.
- A late collapse threatened to derail the chase, but MacMillan and Vidler‘s last-wicket stand saved the day.
- Australia faces India in a re-run of the 2018 U19 World Cup final and the 2023 ODI World Cup final.