Australia’s U19 Dominance Continues with Semifinal Berth Clinched Against West Indies

Australia, the reigning champions, became the first team to secure a spot in the semifinals of the ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026 after defeating the West Indies by 22 runs in the Super Six stage at Harare Sports Club on Wednesday.

Opting to bat first, Australia set an imposing target of 314 for seven in 50 overs, led by captain Oliver Peake’s impressive 109 off 117 balls. Openers Will Malajczuk (48) and Nitesh Samuel (56) provided a strong start with a 73-run partnership in just nine overs.

Despite a quick double strike by West Indies’ right-arm pacer R’ Jai Gittens, who dismissed Malajczuk and Steven Hogan, Australia regained momentum with an 85-run stand between Samuel and Peake.

Peake’s innings, concluded on the last ball, featured vital collaborations with Alex Lee Young and Jayden Draper, ensuring a formidable total for Australia.

West Indies began their chase positively as openers Tanez Francis and Zachary Carter amassed an 88-run stand. Contributions from middle-order batsmen Jewel Andrew (44), captain Joshua Dorne (62), Kunal Tilokani (35), and Jonathan van Lange (26) kept West Indies in the hunt at 285 for five by the 48th over.

However, as the required run rate escalated, West Indies crumbled, losing their last four wickets for just seven runs, ending up short of the target.

Australia’s right-arm fast bowler Charles Lachmund was the standout performer with figures of 4/66 in nine overs.

While Australia progresses to the semifinals from Group 1, West Indies exits the tournament, along with South Africa and Ireland from the same group. Afghanistan and Sri Lanka remain contenders for the remaining semifinal spot from Group 1.

BRIEF SCORES
Australia 314/7 in 50 overs (Will Malajczuk 48, Nitesh Samuel 56, Oliver Peake 109, Alex Lee Young 45) defeated West Indies 292/9 in 50 overs (Zachary Carter 64, Jewel Andrew 44, Joshua Dorne 62, Charles Lachmund 4/66).

Published on Jan 28, 2026.