Australia skittle Sri Lanka for record-low 58 in U19 World Cup

Australia top Group A after bowling out Sri Lanka for 58

Australia’s Under-19 pace attack delivered a ruthless performance to dismiss Sri Lanka for just 58 runs in their ICC U19 World Cup group match in Namibia, sealing a dominant nine-wicket victory.

It was a historic low for Sri Lanka at the tournament, marking the first time they have been bowled out for under 100 in U19 World Cup history. Their previous lowest total was 101 against the West Indies in 1988. The collapse also represented the 13th occasion Australia have dismissed an opposition for a two-digit total in the competition.

After winning the toss and choosing to field, Australia struck early, reducing Sri Lanka to 3 for 3 inside the first 20 balls. Only two partnerships reached double figures, with the highest stand worth just 12 runs, as the innings unravelled rapidly.

Will Byrom led the charge with an outstanding five-wicket haul, finishing with figures of 5 for 14. He removed Dulnith Sigera, Vimath Dinsara, Kavija Gamage, Aadham Hilmy and Kugathas Mathulan. Charlie Lachmund provided strong support with 2 for 19, while Kasey Barton (2 for 13) and Hayden Schiller (1 for 11) cleaned up the lower order as Sri Lanka were bowled out in under 19 overs.

Only two Sri Lankan batters reached double figures, with Kavija Gamage scoring 10 and Chamika Heenatigala top-scoring with 14.

In reply, Australia lost an early wicket but comfortably chased down the target with 38 overs to spare. Steve Hogan remained unbeaten on 28, while Nitesh Samuel made 19 not out to complete the win.

Both teams have already qualified for the Super Six stage, but Australia carry the points forward from this match, giving them a valuable advantage heading into the next round.

(Agencies)