Sri Lanka makes a stunning comeback in U-19 World Cup Super Sixes, defeats South Africa
U-19 World Cup Super Sixes
Sri Lanka makes a stunning comeback in U-19 World Cup Super Sixes, defeats South Africa
Sri Lanka kept their hopes alive in the tournament
by defeating South Africa by five wickets in the Super Six stage
The Sri Lankan batting line-up displayed confidence, discipline and a modern style of cricket in
This crucial encounter was played at the Queen’s Sports Club.
According to cricket analyst Athar G, the victory is a clear testament to Sri Lanka’s strong planning
the mental maturity of the young players.
Batting first, South Africa scored 261 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in 50 overs.
Jurich van Schalkwijk showed responsible batting and played
a brilliant innings of 116 runs off 130 balls, which included 13 fours and two sixes.
He was well supported by Adnan Lagadine, who scored 46 runs off 57 balls. For Sri Lanka,
Vigneswaran Akash was the standout bowler, taking four wickets in his 10 overs to keep the opposition batting under pressure.
while Koja Gamage took two crucial wickets. According to Atharji, Akash’s line and length did not allow the South African middle order to play openly.
Chasing a target of 262, Sri Lanka’s start was not ideal, and opener Dimantha Mahavithana was dismissed early.
But Senuja Vikunagoda and Veeran Chamuditha then turned the tide of the match by putting on a brilliant 143-run partnership.
Vikunagoda scored 48 runs off 63 balls, which included four fours and a six.
While Veeran Chamuditha scored a match-winning century of 110 runs off 94 balls, which included 13 fours and a six.
Cricket analyst Atharji said that Chamuditha’s innings was characterised by his temperament, shot selection and consistency under pressure.
Sri Lanka eventually achieved the target in 46 overs for the loss of five wickets. For South Africa,
Karne Botha and Michael Kruiskamp took two wickets each, but they could not save the team from defeat.
Overall, the match reflected the changing trends in youth cricket, aggressive but responsible batting and the right bowling combination.
According to Atharji,
The victory not only kept Sri Lanka alive in the tournament but also sent a message to the other teams
that in U-19 cricket, any team can turn the tide of the game under pressure.
