BENONI – Australia beat Pakistan by one wicket in the thrilling semi-final in Benoni, South Africa, to storm into ICC U19 World Cup 2024 where they will face off India.
Aussies surpassed the 180-runs target in final over the match with just one wicket in the hand.
15-year-old Pakistani bowler Ali Raza produced a riveting spell to keep Pakistan in the game till the very end in the semi-final, however, the rival team held their nerves to win the crucial game.
Harry Dixon and Sam Konstas helped Australia make a steady start in pursuit of 180. The duo added 33 runs in the first Powerplay, but Ali Raza was unstoppable, breaking the stand at the start of the second Powerplay. He got one to nip back in and sent back Konstas’ off-stump cartwheeling.
Dixon was later dismissed for 50. However, the tail-order managed to save the last wicket and helped their side to won the game.P
Earlier, Pakistan set a target of 180 runs for Australia.
Azan Awais and Arafat Minhas smashed fifties to boost the total as no other player except Shamyl Hussain (17) could cross the 10-run mark.
Australian bowler Tom Straker delivered stunning spell as he took six wickets for just 24 runs, restricting the team green from building a big total.
The Final match will be played on Sunday at the same venue.
India have already qualified for the Final of ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup.
