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Australia became the first team to book a semi-finals berth at the ongoing ICC Men's Under-19 World Cup 2026 as they defeated West Indies Under-19 by 22 runs in a high-scoring Super Sixes contest at the Harare Sports Club on Wednesday.
After being put in to bat, the Australians posted a formidable total of 314/7 in their 50 overs, anchored by a masterful century from captain Oliver Peake. Peake's resilient 109 off 117 balls provided the backbone of the innings after significant contributions from Nitesh Samuel (56) and Will Malajczuk (48) at the top provided Australians with a phenomenal start. Despite the West Indies' efforts with the ball--highlighted by Jakeem Pollard's 2 for 37 in 8 overs and RJai Gittens' 2/45 in 6 overs --the Australian middle and lower orders capitalised on the final powerplay to set a daunting target of 315. In response, the West Indies displayed flashes of brilliance but struggled to keep pace with the mounting required run rate. Zachary Carter provided an explosive start with a rapid 64 off just 42 deliveries, and Joshua Dorne anchored the middle period with a steady 62 off 97 balls. However, the Australian bowling unit, led by disciplined spells from Charles Lachmund (4/66 in 9 overs) and Aryan Sharma (2/47 in 9 overs), restricted the Caribbean side effectively. Although the West Indies reached 239/3 by the 40.3 overs, the gap proved too wide to bridge. Australia's clinical execution in the field and consistent line and length ensured they remained unbeaten in the tournament, securing their fifth consecutive victory in the tournament; a win that inches them closer to their fifth Under-19 World Cup championship. Oliver Peake was named the 'Player of the Match' for his match-winning century. (ANI)
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