U19 World Cup 2024 (Game 39) – Semi Final – India vs South Africa
The Indian Under-19 cricket team fought tooth and nail against South Africa Under-19, clinching a nail-biting victory to secure their spot in the finals. Sachin Dhas and Uday Saharan helped claw their way back into the game. The pair putt on an impressive 171 run partnership to keep India’s hopes alive after and early collapse, paving the way for Raj Limbani to finish off the match with a couple rocks to spare.
India Under-19 having won the toss, opted to bowl first. The decision proved fruitful initially as their frontline pacers made early inroads into the South African batting lineup. However, South Africa managed to rebuild their innings, thanks to a spirited partnership of 72 between Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Richard Seletswane. Despite intermittent breakthroughs by India’s Musheer Khan and Limbani, South Africa kept their spirits high and reached a competitive total of 244 for 7 wickets.
India Under-19 were met by a fiery start by South Africa’s pace duo, Kwena Maphaka and Tristan Luus. The top order crumbled under pressure, with India reeling at 32 for 4 inside the first twelve overs. However, skipper Uday Saharan and Sachin Dhas turned the tide with a remarkable partnership of 171 runs. Dhas led the charge with a brilliant knock of 96 runs, ably supported by Saharan’s composed 81. Despite late hiccups, India managed to edge past the finish line thanks to a bit of composure from Raj Limbani, securing a thrilling victory by 2 wickets.
India’s win means that they will play in their 9th U19 World Cup Final. Having won it five times already, the Indian team will undoubtedly go into it confident, no matter the opposition. They are currently reigning champions and reached the final five times on the trot.
Chief Scores :-
South Africa U19 – 244 for 7 in 50 overs (Lhuan-dre Pretorius 76, Richard Seletswane 64, Juan James 24, Raj Limbani 3 for 60, Musheer Khan 2 for 43, Saumy Kumar Pandey 1 for 38)
India U19 – 248 for 8 in 48.5 overs (Sachin Dhas 96, Uday Saharan 81, Raj Limbani 13*, Kwena Maphaka 3 for 32, Tristan Lus 3 for 37, Oliver Whitehead 0 for 17)
