Thrilling Semi-Final Showdown: Australia’s U19 Team Edges Past Pakistan to Secure Final Berth”

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Australia’s Under 19 cricket team clinched a nail-biting victory over Pakistan’s counterparts, edging past them by one wicket in the gripping second semi-final of the ICC Under 19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024 held in Benoni, South Africa, on February 7, Thursday. With this hard-fought win, Australia has booked their spot to face India in the showdown scheduled for February 11, Sunday.

Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, Australia’s U19 team immediately put pressure on Pakistan as they lost two quick wickets within the initial 10 overs, managing only 27 runs. Tom Straker, from the Australian side, set the tone by dismissing Shamyl Hussain. He continued to impress, snatching wickets at crucial junctures, with notable support from his teammates.

Pakistan’s third batsman, Azan Awais, attempted to stabilize the innings with a valiant 52-run knock but fell victim to Straker’s prowess. Arafat Minhas also made a commendable effort, scoring 52 runs, yet lacked substantial support from his teammates as Pakistan’s innings concluded at 179-10 in 48.5 overs.

Though the target seemed within reach for Australia’s U19 squad, Pakistan’s disciplined bowling, particularly led by Ali Raza, made the chase daunting. Despite opener Harry Dixon’s half-century and middle-order batsman Oliver Peake’s 49 runs, Australia found themselves in a precarious situation during the chase.

Australia Clinches Thrilling Victory in Final Over Drama

In a tense final over, Australia needed just three runs with only one wicket remaining to seal victory, thanks to the outstanding efforts of Pakistan’s Ali Raza. Raza had claimed two wickets without conceding a run in the 46th over, setting the stage for a gripping finish. Facing Mohammad Zeeshan, Australia’s Raf MacMillan aimed to guide the ball through the off-side, but could only manage a thick inside edge. Adding to the drama, Pakistan had to bring an extra fielder inside the ring due to a slow over-rate, leading to the fine-leg fielder moving closer, which ultimately played a crucial role. Despite a valiant chase by the fielder, the ball eluded his grasp, crossing the boundary and sealing a thrilling victory for Australia.