Under 19 World Cup: Australia beats India by 79 runs in the final

India faced a heartbreaking defeat of 79 runs against Australia in the Under-19 World Cup final at Willowmoore Park on February 11, Sunday, marking Australia's fourth U-19 World Cup title. Harjas Singh's 55 off 64 propelled Australia to a record total of 253/7. In response, Indian batters struggled, with Adarsh Singh top-scoring with 47 off 77, and eventually, India was bowled out for 174. This loss marked India's second World Cup defeat in less than three months, following the senior team's loss to Australia in the ODI World Cup final in November.

The Australian team showcased dominance, securing the highest-ever total in an U19 World Cup final. Previously, England held the record with 242/3 in the 1998 Under-19 World Cup final. Australia had previously won the U-19 World Cup in 1988, 2002, and 2010. The Indian batting lineup struggled under pressure, with key players like Uday Saharan, Musheer Khan, and Sachin Dhas facing early dismissals.

Despite Uday Saharan leading the U19 World Cup 2024 batting charts with over 300 runs, he was ousted for just 8 in the final. Musheer Khan, benefiting from dropped chances, fell for 22, while Sachin Dhas, known for crucial innings, was caught behind for 9. Australia's bowlers, particularly Mahli Beardman and Raf MacMillan, consistently took wickets, preventing India from gaining momentum.

Callum Vidler, Australia's new-ball bowler, set the tone by dismissing Arshin Kulkarni early. Adarsh Singh battled on but fell in the 31st over after scoring a resilient 47. Abhishek Murugan's gritty 42 and a partnership with Naman Tiwari for the 9th wicket showed resistance, but India couldn't capitalize on the opportunities, ultimately falling short.

In the bowling department, Raj Limbani and Naman Tiwari made crucial breakthroughs for India, but Australia managed to post a competitive total of 253/7. Harjas Singh's 55 and partnerships between Harry Dixon (42) and skipper Hugh Weibgen (48) added stability to Australia's innings. Tiwari's brilliance dismissed Weibgen and Dixon, bringing India back into contention. Despite a middle-order falter, Australia reached a healthy total with useful contributions from the lower order, scoring 66 runs in the final 10 overs.

This Under-19 World Cup final showcased Australia's resilience, effective partnerships, and skillful bowling, securing them their fourth U-19 World Cup title. On the other hand, India faced disappointment as their batting lineup struggled under the pressure of a record total, resulting in their second World Cup defeat within a short span.