U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Final: India and Australia to Clash for the Title
The ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024 final is set to be a thrilling contest as India and Australia, following their respective semi-final victories, prepare to battle for the championship.
India secured their place in the final by overcoming hosts South Africa in a nail-biting match on Tuesday. Despite a shaky start, India chased down the target of 245, thanks to a match-winning partnership between Sachin Dhas and captain Uday Saharan.
Australia, on the other hand, edged past Pakistan in the second semi-final on Thursday. After bowling out Pakistan for a modest 179, Australia’s middle and lower order stitched together crucial partnerships to secure a thrilling victory.
The grand finale, scheduled for Sunday, 11 February, will be held at Willowmoore Park, Benoni, the same venue that hosted both semi-finals. The match will commence at 10h00 local time (SAST).
Both India and Australia have remained undefeated throughout the tournament, showcasing some of the most promising young talent in cricket.
Team captains Uday Saharan of India and Hugh Weibgen of Australia, both of whom have impressed throughout the tournament, are eager to lift the coveted trophy on Sunday.
India’s Captain, Uday Saharan, on the Upcoming Final
“As we approach the World Cup final, we carry the dreams of a billion hearts on our shoulders. Our journey has been a testament to our hard work, unity, and love for the game. In this final battle, we aim to create a legacy that inspires the next generation. It’s not just a game; it’s a chance to etch our names in history. We have played with passion, determination, and a belief that we will get the coveted title home. In the final, against Australia, it is going to be no different as we go one step closer to defending the title successfully. Together, as one team, one nation, we march into the final, ready to seize our moment and make India proud. As a captain, I couldn’t have asked for anything more from my team as we stand at the cusp of creating history.”
Australia’s Captain, Hugh Weibgen, Shares His Thoughts
“We’re really pleased to have made it through to the final after a close game against Pakistan and we can’t wait to take on India in Sunday’s final. The whole squad has done a terrific job throughout the tournament, and it would mean so much to us as a group to lift the trophy on Sunday. This is an opportunity to make our coaches as well as family and friends extremely proud. They have helped and supported us along the journey. India have obviously also had an outstanding tournament so far and are a class team. We’re expecting they will provide a challenge for us, and we are looking forward to it.”
India and Australia have previously met twice in the U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup final, with India emerging victorious on both occasions in 2012 and 2018.
The match officials for Sunday’s final have been confirmed, with Allahudien Palekar and Langton Rusere selected as the on-field umpires. Rashid Riaz will serve as the TV umpire, with Roland Black as the fourth umpire and Shaid Wadvalla as the Match Referee.
Fans in Benoni can witness the crowning of the U19 Men’s CWC 2024 champions for free at Sunday’s final. The on-field action will be accompanied by a vibrant festival atmosphere, with live music and entertainment offerings that promise a memorable showcase of cricket.
Viewers in India can catch the action on Star Sports 1 and Disney+ Hotstar, with free-to-air coverage available on Doordarshan. In Australia, Prime Video will provide live coverage across devices. In South Africa, SuperSport Cricket will present live coverage, which also extends to Sub-Saharan Africa. Criclife Max and Starzplay will provide coverage in the MENA region, while the match will be broadcast across Sky Sports Cricket and Sky Sports Main Event channels in the UK, with additional live coverage provided by Willow (USA & Canada), ESPN Caribbean (Caribbean) and on Sky Sport 2 in New Zealand. In all other territories, the final will be broadcast live and free on ICC.tv.