South Africa colts lift ICC U19 World Cup beating Pakistan

DUBAI: South Africa lifted the ICC U-19 World Cup defeating Pakistan by six wickets in a low-scoring final encounter on Saturday. Batting first, Pakistan were bowled out for a paltry 131 in 44.3 overs with right arm medium pacer Corbin Bosch grabbing four for 15 in 7.3 overs. In reply, South Africa chased down the target in 42.1 overs with Aiden Markram (66) and Greg Oldfield (40) being the chief contributors. Earlier in the day, Pakistan were reeling at 72 for seven when Zafar Gohar (22) and Amad Butt (37) added 45 runs for the eighth wicket stand to take the team total past 100-run mark. Most of the top order batsmen like captain Sami Aslam (16), Imam-ul-Haq (12) and Hasan Raza (2) (15) were guilty of playing poor shots. Once the top order was blown away, it was difficult for the middle and lower order to repair and also build a substantial score on a big day. The pressure was telling and Pakistan wilted under it. While chasing a low score was not a big ask but Proteas took a lot of time but achieved the target. Markram-Oldfield added 71 runs for the fourth wicket to ensure a smooth sailing for the champion team. Brief Scores: Pakistan 131 in 44.3 overs (Amad Butt 37, Zafar Gohar 22, Corbin Bosch 4/15). South Africa 134/4 in 42.1 overs (Aiden Makrram 66, Greg Oldfield 40). SA u-19 won by 6 wickets.   TOI