India vs Australia: The Final Showdown in Benoni

Australia Wins Toss, Elects to Bat First

Australia triumphed over India by a significant 79 runs to secure the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024.

After winning the toss, Australia’s captain, Hugh Weibgen, chose to bat first. Australia managed to amass a record-breaking total of 253/7 in the first innings, the highest ever in a U19 World Cup final. Harjas Singh led the scoring with 55 runs, while Weibgen, Harry Dixon, and Ollie Peak contributed crucial 40s. Raj Limbani was the standout bowler for India, taking 3/38.

India’s chase got off to a disastrous start, losing four key batters within the first 20 overs. Despite a late surge from Abhishek Murugan, Australia’s victory was inevitable, and they wrapped up the game in the 44th over. Mahli Beardman was named Player of the Match for his impressive 3/15.

Kwena Maphaka Earns U19 Cricket World Cup Player of the Tournament

India’s Chase: A Detailed Look

India’s chase was rattled early on when Arshin Kulkarni was caught behind the wicket. Despite a cautious start from Adarsh Singh and Musheer Khan, the team could not recover from the early setbacks. Mahli Beardman claimed two crucial wickets, including India’s skipper Uday Saharan. Despite a fighting 47 from Adarsh Singh and a feisty 42 from Abhishek Murugan, it was too little, too late for India.

Mahli Beardman’s exceptional bowling figures of 3/15 earned him the Player of the Match award in the final.

Australia’s Innings: A Closer Look

Australia’s innings started aggressively with Harry Dixon scoring 15 runs off Naman Tiwari’s first over. Despite losing Sam Konstas early, Australia maintained a steady scoring rate. The middle overs saw a patient stand from Harjas Singh and Ryan Hicks, with Harjas scoring his maiden fifty of the U19 World Cup. Australia’s total surpassed 200 thanks to Ollie Peake’s positive intent, and they added 66 runs in the last 10 overs.

Saumy Pandey was dismissed in the 44th over, marking the end of a thrilling match.