Former Indian batsman Mohammad Kaif commended Australia for their victory over India in the ICC U19 World Cup final in Benoni, acknowledging the Australian team’s superior performance both on the field and on paper. Australia secured their first U19 title since 2010 and their fourth overall by defending a target of 254 against India, breaking their winless streak in U19 title clashes with the Men in Blue.
Kaif emphasized the significance of the U19 level in shaping future cricket stars, highlighting the importance of the lessons learned in this tournament for the players’ long-term development. Despite India’s defeat, Kaif congratulated them for their commendable performances throughout the tournament.
Recapping the final match, Australia gained early control with two maiden overs and early wickets during India’s run chase. Mahli Beardman’s crucial wickets, including that of India’s skipper Uday Saharan, set the tone for Australia’s dominant performance.
Australia’s bowlers, led by Beardman and supported by Raf MacMillan and Calium Vidler, played a pivotal role in restricting India to 174 runs. Earlier, Australia’s decision to bat first proved fruitful as contributions from Harjas Singh, Hugh Weibgen, and Oliver Peake propelled them to a competitive total of 254.
In the end, Australia’s victory marked another World Cup final disappointment for India, as they clinched a 79-run win to lift the U19 World Cup trophy.
