An all-round performance from Tanveer Sangha has guided Australia into the ICC Under 19 Cricket World Cup Fifth Place Play-Off via a tense four-wicket win over Afghanistan. (More Cricket News)
Sangha was on song with the ball, taking 4-41 with his leg spin as Afghanistan was restricted to 7-191 batting first at North West University Oval in Potchefstroom. He was ably supported by Liam Scott who claimed 2-26.
In reply, Sam Fanning (62) and Lachlan Hearne (48) stabilised Australia's innings after losing two early wickets. Their departures too came in a middle-order collapse of 4-23 which threatened to end Australia's hopes.
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But Sangha (46 not out from 40 balls) and Patrick Rowe (22 not out) steadied the ship once more, combining for an unbeaten 72-run, seventh-wicket stand to steer Australia home. Sangha finished the match with a six on the penultimate delivery.
Australia will take on West Indies, against whom they suffered a three-wicket defeat in their opening match of the tournament, in the Fifth Place Play-Off at Willowmoore Park, Benoni on Friday, February 7.
Australia fixtures:
- vs West Indies, January 18, Diamond Oval, Kimberley. West Indies won by three wickets.
- vs Nigeria, January 20, Country Club B Field, Kimberley. Australia won by 10 wickets.
- vs England, January 23, Diamond Oval, Kimberley. Australia won by two wickets.
- vs India, January 28, JB Marks Oval, Potchefstroom. India won by 74 runs.
- vs Afghanistan, February 2, North West University Oval, Potchefstroom. Australia won by four wickets.
- vs West Indies, February 7, Willowmoore Park, Benoni.
