U19 World Cup 2024 (Game 16) – Australia vs Zimbabwe
In a clinical display of cricket prowess, Australia Under-19 secured a resounding victory over Zimbabwe Under-19, sealing their place in the Super Six stage of the 2024 Under-19 World Cup. The three-time champions delivered an emphatic performance, triumphing by an imposing margin of 225 runs, marking their second consecutive win in the tournament.
Opting to bat after winning the toss, Australia’s openers, Harry Dixon and Sam Konstas, displayed patience initially, gradually building a solid foundation. Konstas fell just short of a half-century, but Dixon continued to anchor the innings alongside skipper Weibgen. After Dixon’s departure at 89, Zimbabwe Under-19 attempted a comeback, securing crucial wickets in clusters. However, a brisk cameo from Tom Campbell bolstered Australia’s total to 296. Zimbabwe’s bowling trio of Ryan Simbi, Brandon Sunguro, and Matthew Schonken impressed, each claiming two wickets.
In response, Zimbabwe Under-19 faced a daunting task chasing 297 runs, struggling against the pace and bounce generated by the Australian pacers. A disastrous start saw them lose three wickets in the first three overs, and a run-out further compounded their troubles. Despite some resistance from Ronak Patel and Brandon Sunguro, the Zimbabwean batting unit faltered, with six batters dismissed for ducks. Harkirat Bajwa spearheaded Australia’s bowling attack, claiming four wickets, while Mahli Beardman and Aidan O’Connor contributed with crucial breakthroughs. Zimbabwe U19 was eventually bundled out for a mere 71 runs, securing a comprehensive victory for Australia U19.
Chief Scores :
Australia U19 – 296 for 7 in 50 overs (Harry Dixon 89, Hugh Weibgen 68, Tom Edward Campbell 47*, Brandon Sunguro 2 for 48, Ryan Simbi 2 for 53, Matthew Schonken 2 for 65)
Zimbabwe U19 – 71 for 10 in 23.2 overs (Ronak Patel 36, Brandon Sunguro 12, Nathaniel Hlabangana 8, Harkirat Bajwa 4 for 15, Mahli Beardman 2 for 7, Aidan O’Connor 2 for 17)
