The 2022 ICC Under-19 Men's Cricket World Cup saw Afghanistan, England, and Australia secure their spots in the semi-finals, joining eventual champions India in the tournament's penultimate stage. The event, held across the West Indies from January 14 to February 5, 2022, featured 16 teams battling for youth cricket's top honor.England advanced after a thrilling 15-run victory over Afghanistan in the first semi-final, while India dominated Australia with a 96-run win in the second.This marked England's first appearance in the U19 World Cup final since their 1998 triumph.[en+4]
England's Unbeaten Run to the Final
England's journey to the semi-finals was impressive, maintaining an unbeaten record through the group stages and Super Six matches. Captain Tom Prest led the side, guiding them with consistent performances.In their Super Six encounter, England defeated New Zealand by 65 runs.Seamer Manny Lumsden was a standout performer in that match, claiming five wickets for just 17 runs.England's strong bowling attack and reliable batting laid a solid foundation for their deep run in the tournament. They showcased resilience and skill, overcoming various challenges on their path to the knockout rounds. The team's collective effort and individual brilliance were key factors in their success.All-rounder Caleb Falconer expressed confidence in the team's balance and contributions from various players.He noted that the team was not overly concerned about their semi-final opponent, focusing instead on their own game.[indiatvnews+10]
Afghanistan's Historic Semi-Final Berth
Afghanistan's qualification for the semi-finals was a significant achievement, marking only their second time reaching this stage in the tournament's history.The team displayed strong performances, including a commanding 191-run victory over Ireland in a crucial Super Six match.This emphatic win secured their progression and ended Sri Lanka's hopes due to Afghanistan's superior net run rate.Opener Faisal Khan was instrumental in their success, scoring a sensational 163 runs from 142 balls against Ireland.This knock included 18 fours and one six, setting a new record for the highest individual score by an Afghan batter in U19 World Cup history.Captain Mahboob Khan also contributed significantly with 89 runs, forming a crucial 188-run partnership with Khan.Abdul Aziz and Aqil Khan were key bowlers, taking three wickets each against Ireland, ensuring a comprehensive victory.[indiatvnews+14]
Australia's Consistent Campaign
Australia also demonstrated strong form throughout the 2022 tournament, securing their semi-final spot with consistent performances. They maintained an unbeaten record in their group and continued their winning momentum into the Super Six stage.In a key Super Six match, Australia posted a formidable total of 314 for seven against West Indies.Captain Oliver Peake played a pivotal role in this victory, scoring a well-paced 109 runs.His century, his first of the tournament, helped Australia surpass the 300-run mark.Will Malajczuk and Nitesh Samuel also provided a solid opening partnership, contributing 48 and 56 runs respectively.Australia's dominance in their matches underscored their ambition to claim the U19 World Cup title.[icc-cricket+4]
Thrilling Semi-Final Showdowns
The semi-final stage presented two highly anticipated clashes. In the first semi-final, England faced Afghanistan. England batted first and scored 231 for 6 in their allotted 47 overs in a rain-affected match.Afghanistan, in response, put up a spirited chase, but England's bowlers held their nerve.Spinner Rehan Ahmed emerged as a hero for England, taking three crucial wickets in the penultimate over.This late surge by Ahmed sealed a dramatic 15-run victory for England using the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method.England's George Bell later praised skipper Tom Prest for keeping the team calm during the intense moments of the match.[flashscore+6]
The second semi-final featured a powerhouse clash between India and Australia. India delivered a dominant performance, posting a strong total of 290 for 5 in their 50 overs.In reply, Australia struggled against India's bowling attack and were bowled out for 194 runs in 41.5 overs.India secured a convincing 96-run victory, advancing to their fourth consecutive ICC U19 Cricket World Cup final.Key performances for India in their quarter-final against Bangladesh included Angkrish Raghuvanshi with 44 runs and Shaik Rasheed with 26 runs, while Ravi Kumar took early wickets.Spinner Vicky Ostwal and Kaushal Tambe also contributed with crucial wickets in that match.[flashscore+5]
Tournament Conclusion
Following the semi-finals, India went on to face England in the final. India ultimately triumphed, beating England by four wickets to lift their record fifth ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup title.In the third-place playoff match, Australia defeated Afghanistan by two wickets in another close contest.South Africa's Dewald Brevis was named the Player of the Tournament for his exceptional batting, scoring a remarkable 506 runs.Sri Lanka's Dunith Wellalage was the leading wicket-taker with 17 scalps.The 2022 tournament highlighted emerging talent and provided thrilling contests, showcasing the future stars of international cricket.[en+4]
