Day four of the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024 witnessed Bangladesh clinching their inaugural victory in the tournament, while Australia triumphed over a resilient Namibian side in Kimberley.
In Bloemfontein, Bangladesh achieved a remarkable win, chasing down Ireland’s 236 with an unbeaten century partnership between Ahrar Amin and Mohammad Shihab James. Kian Hilton’s impressive 90 had earlier rescued Ireland from a challenging position at 95/4 to a competitive 235/8.
The match in Bloemfontein saw Ireland opting to bat after Bangladesh won the toss. Despite an early breakthrough by Maruf Mridha, Ireland maintained a positive start during the Powerplay, scoring at a respectable rate.
However, the introduction of spin turned the tide in Bangladesh’s favor, with Sheikh Parvez Jibon and Uzzaman Rafi taking crucial wickets. Kian Hilton’s resilient batting performance, especially against spinners, propelled Ireland to a competitive total.
In response, Bangladesh started confidently with Ashiqur Rahman Shibli and Adil Bin Siddik adding 55 runs in the first Powerplay. Despite the fall of wickets, Chodwury Md Rizwan and Ariful Islam provided crucial contributions. Ahrar Amin and Mohammad Shihab James sealed the victory with a remarkable fifth-wicket partnership, guiding Bangladesh to success.
Meanwhile, in Kimberley, Australia elected to bowl first after winning the toss against Namibia. The Australian pace attack, led by Charlie Anderson and Callum Vidler, dominated Namibia’s batting lineup, restricting them to a mere 91 runs. Zacheo van Vuuren showed resistance but couldn’t prevent Namibia from struggling.
Australia faced early challenges in their chase, losing wickets within the Powerplay against Namibian bowlers. However, captain Hugh Weibgen and Raf MacMillan steadied the innings with a crucial 30-run partnership, guiding Australia to a four-wicket victory. This win marked Australia’s first triumph in the tournament.
Day four of the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024 showcased Bangladesh’s impressive victory over Ireland and Australia’s successful performance against Namibia.
