HARARE, Zimbabwe — West Indies’ hopes of reaching the semi-finals of the ICC Men’s Under-19 Cricket World Cup were officially extinguished on Friday after Sri Lanka defeated South Africa in their final Super Six Group 1 fixture, rendering the Caribbean side’s slim qualification scenario impossible.
Having completed their Super Six campaign on four points, the Windies required heavy defeats for both Sri Lanka and Afghanistan to remain in contention. Sri Lanka’s successful chase, however, ensured that West Indies’ fate was sealed before the final standings were confirmed.
Chamuditha leads Sri Lanka past South Africa
Sri Lanka delivered the decisive blow behind a commanding performance from opener Viran Chamuditha, whose brilliant century anchored a successful run chase at Queens Sports Club.
Chamuditha struck a composed 117 as Sri Lanka overhauled South Africa’s 261 for seven, reaching 265 for five in just 46 overs. His innings provided the stability and momentum required to comfortably chase down the target and remain alive in the race for the semi-finals.
Afghanistan’s rampage ends all doubt
Any lingering uncertainty was erased later in the day when Afghanistan produced a dominant display against Ireland at Harare Sports Club.
Faisal Khan powered his side with a superb 163, supported by Mahboob Khan’s 89, as Afghanistan piled up an imposing 315 for seven from their 50 overs. Ireland struggled in response and were dismissed for 124 in 40.4 overs, handing Afghanistan a crushing 191-run victory.
The emphatic win significantly boosted Afghanistan’s net run rate, a factor that ultimately proved decisive.
Net run rate separates the final four
At the conclusion of Group 1 action, both Afghanistan and Sri Lanka finished level on six points. However, Afghanistan claimed the semi-final berth alongside Australia due to a superior net run rate of +1.725, compared to Sri Lanka’s -0.113.
West Indies, meanwhile, were left to reflect on missed opportunities after finishing outside the top two and bowing out of semi-final contention.
