A spirited fightback from the West Indies Under-19 team ultimately proved insufficient against a formidable Australian side, suffering a 22-run defeat in a crucial ICC Under-19 Men’s World Cup group stage encounter. The match, held at Harare Sports Club on January 28, saw Australia post a commanding total that the Caribbean youngsters could not overcome, severely jeopardizing their tournament progression.
Electing to field after winning the toss, the West Indies strategy was immediately challenged by a blistering Australian opening partnership. Will Malajczuk (48) and Nitesh Gershom Samuel (56) launched a rapid assault, amassing 73 runs within the first 56 deliveries to establish a dominant platform. The innings was then masterfully anchored by Captain Oliver Peake, who delivered a magnificent century, scoring 109. Supported by Alex Young’s valuable 45, Australia finished their 50 overs at an intimidating 314/7. Jakeem Javier Pollard emerged as the most effective Windies bowler, securing figures of 2/37.
In response, the West Indies displayed commendable resolve. Openers Zachary Carter and Tanez Francis provided a solid foundation with an 88-run partnership. After both openers were dismissed, Captain Joshua Dorne shouldered the responsibility with a determined 62, forming crucial partnerships with Jewel Andrew (44) and Kunal Tilokani (35) to keep the chase alive.
However, Australia’s bowling unit expertly seized control during the critical middle and death overs. Leg-spinner Nathan Cooray applied immense pressure with an exceptionally economical spell, conceding just 38 runs from his full quota of ten overs. This stranglehold was complemented by Charles Lachmund’s decisive four-wicket haul for 66 runs, triggering a cascade of wickets that stifled the Windies’ momentum. Requiring an improbable run rate exceeding ten per over in the final phase, the Caribbean team was eventually bowled out for 292, falling short of the target.