India enters ICC U19 World Cup finals; Beat South Africa by two wickets in Benoni
Batting first in the first semi-final match, South Africa scored 244 runs for the loss of seven wickets in the allotted 50 overs. After that, India came to bat and achieved the target by scoring 248 runs in 48.5 overs for the loss of eight wickets. India reached the World Cup final with Uday Sharan’s brilliant performance.
Indian players charge onto the field and they’re absolutely thrilled. South Africa look crestfallen. What a semifinal we’ve had here in Benoni. At one point, India seemed to be down and out at 32/4 with South Africa’s pacers all over them. However, it was Sachin Dhas who led the recovery along with captain Uday Saharan.
The two of them put on an incredible partnership of 171, powered by Dhas’s 96 off 95 balls. He was the one who kept the run rate on track while being supported and encouraged by the captain at the other end.
Things did get a bit tricky after his dismissal. However, Saharan was there to guide his team home, absorbing the pressure beautifully and pacing his innings according to the situation. The two lead pacers from South Africa – Maphaka and Luus – gave it their all. Both of them were sensational throughout the tournament, and they kept the hosts in the game with three wickets each. But it wasn’t enough today.
India seal a spot in the final with a thrilling win. Who will join them, Australia or Pakistan? We’ll find out tomorrow after the second semifinal. Until then, it’s goodbye!

Saharan, India captain and POTM: We were well behind at one point. Kept saying one thing that we have to bat till the end. Was a matter of one partnership. I get that from my dad (taking the game deep). When I walked into bat, ball was nipping a bit, and there was good bounce. Later it started coming onto the bat better. We don’t let the morale get low in the dressing room at all – our environment and coaches are superb. Great feeling to reach the final. Got a taste of close games.
James, SA captain: They bowled really well. When they were batting when we had them 4 down, Uday and Sachin batted really well. Something we’ve struggled with the whole tournament. Thing that stands out most for me is never giving up. Want to thank everyone for coming out for every single game