The ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026 delivered fireworks on Day 5 with three commanding victories that showcased raw talent, explosive batting, and clinical bowling. South Africa unleashed a batting blitz to crush tournament debutants Tanzania by a colossal 329 runs, Pakistan bounced back emphatically with a six-wicket triumph over Scotland, and Sri Lanka maintained their perfect record by outclassing Ireland by 106 runs. As the group stage heats up, these results inject momentum into the campaigns of three traditional powerhouses while highlighting the tournament’s blend of dominance and emerging promise.
This action-packed Monday across venues in Windhoek and Harare reminded fans why the U19 World Cup remains cricket’s ultimate talent showcase—where future Test stars announce themselves with match-defining performances.
South Africa’s Record-Breaking Rampage: 397 Sets Up 329-Run Rout
In Windhoek’s High Performance Oval, South Africa turned frustration from their opening loss into a statement of intent. Opting to bat first, the Junior Proteas posted a mammoth 397/5—their highest total in U19 World Cup history—powered by twin centuries from Muhammad Bulbulia and Jason Rowles.
Jorich van Schalkwyk set the tone with a blistering 47 off 34 (five sixes), before Bulbulia (108 off 108 balls, including a six to reach three figures) and Rowles (unbeaten 125 off 101, 10 fours and five sixes) forged a 201-run partnership that broke the back of Tanzania’s attack. Late cameos from Paul James (46 off 18) and Lethabo Phahlamohlaka (16* off 5) propelled 116 runs in the final eight overs.
Tanzania’s reply never materialized. Bayanda Majola struck twice early to leave them 13/4, while Rowles added two wickets and a run-out. Only three Tanzanian batters reached double figures, with Mohammedi Simba’s 17 the top score as they collapsed to 68 all out in 32.2 overs. The 329-run margin is among the largest in U19 World Cup history, boosting South Africa’s net run rate and Super Six qualification hopes in Group D.
Pakistan’s All-Round Mastery: Ali Raza’s Four-For Seals Comfortable Chase
At Takashinga Sports Club in Harare, Pakistan captain Farhan Yousaf won the toss and unleashed his bowlers on Scotland. Leg-spinner Ali Raza justified the decision immediately, claiming two wickets in the first over—clean-bowling Theo Robinson and Max Chaplin with pinpoint full deliveries.
Scotland captain Thomas Knight resisted with 37, but Momin Qamar (3/46) and Raza (4/37) dismantled the middle order. A gritty 58-run seventh-wicket stand between Finlay Jones (33) and Manu Saraswat (25) offered brief resistance, but Scotland folded for 187 with balls to spare.
Pakistan’s chase hit early turbulence—Ollie Jones removed both openers to make it 48/2—but Usman Khan’s fluent 75 (85 balls) and Ahmed Hussain’s composed 47 (92 balls) steadied the ship with a 111-run stand. Farhan Yousaf finished unbeaten on 18 as Pakistan reached 190/4 in 43.1 overs, winning by six wickets with 41 balls remaining. The victory lifts Pakistan in Group C standings after an earlier setback.
Sri Lanka’s Captain Leads from Front: Vimath Dinsara Stars in 106-Run Win
Sri Lanka continued their flawless start at Namibia Cricket Ground, posting 267/5 after electing to bat against Ireland. Openers Dimantha Mahavithana and Viran Chamuditha—fresh from a record 328-run stand vs Japan—fell cheaply (17/2), but captain Vimath Dinsara anchored with a classy 95 (six fours, one six).
Kavija Gamage (49, run out by a direct hit) and Chamika Heentigala (unbeaten 51) provided solid support. In the field, Dinsara took a spectacular diving catch at second slip, while Dulnith Sigera (4/19) tore through Ireland’s middle order. Callum Armstrong battled to 39 (retired hurt with cramp, returned to add 2 before falling last) and Reuben Wilson made 32, but Ireland were dismissed for 161 in 40.1 overs—106 runs short.
Sri Lanka’s +3.090 net run rate keeps them atop Group A, underlining their status as serious contenders.
Key Performers
- Standout Stars:
- Jason Rowles (SA): 125* + 2/14 – All-round hero.
- Muhammad Bulbulia (SA): 108 – Captain’s knock.
- Ali Raza (PAK): 4/37 – Early devastation.
- Vimath Dinsara (SL): 95 + key catch – Leadership masterclass.
- Big Numbers:
- Highest total: 397/5 (South Africa)
- Largest victory margin: 329 runs (South Africa)
- Best bowling: Ali Raza 4/37, Dulnith Sigera 4/19
These results reshape group dynamics: Sri Lanka solidify top spot, South Africa rebound strongly, and Pakistan regain momentum. With Super Six qualification looming, expect more fireworks as the young guns chase the ultimate prize.
