THE MIDDLE ORDER, LED BY BEARDMAN, PROPELS AUSTRALIA TO WORLD CUP GLORY
Australia clinched their fourth U19 World Cup title with a commanding 79-run victory over defending champions India in Benoni.
This marked Australia’s first triumph over India in the final, having suffered defeat on two previous occasions.
Australia set the tone by posting a formidable total of 253/7 after choosing to bat first, the highest score in an U19 World Cup final.
The challenge for India became evident from the maiden over delivered by Callum Vidler to begin the second innings.
Arshin Kulkarni fell to Vidler’s next over, followed swiftly by Musheer Khan, dismissed by a delivery from Mahli Beardman that kept low.
India’s captain, Uday Saharan, renowned for his rescue acts, couldn’t replicate his heroics this time, falling to Beardman in the 17th over.
India’s innings then spiraled into a collapse, with Sachin Dhas, Priyanshu Moliya, and Aravelly Avanish all departing quickly.
Despite Adarsh Singh’s valiant effort, scoring 47 off 77 balls, India faltered.
Beardman accounted for Singh’s wicket, contributing to his long vigil ending.
India was eventually bowled out for 174 in under 44 overs, with Beardman and Raf Macmillan claiming six wickets between them.
Australia navigated India’s breakthroughs with crucial partnerships.
Harry Dixon and captain Hugh Weibgen initiated with a 78-run stand.
Subsequent contributions from Harjas Singh and Ryan Hicks, followed by Oliver Peake’s unbeaten 46 off 43 balls, propelled Australia to a record total in the final.
This resilient batting display ensured Australia’s victory and secured their place in U19 World Cup history.
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