India Hang On To Gain Under-19 World Cup Crown

India was tonight crowned champion of the ICC U/19 Cricket World Cup in Malaysia after a thrilling conclusion against South Africa in Kuala Lumpur.

Set a revised target of 116 to win from 25 overs after the second innings was reduced because of rain, South Africa needed 26 runs from the remaining two overs but despite the best efforts of captain Wayne Parnell and wicketkeeper Bradley Barnes, the junior Proteas fell just 12 runs short.

In truth, India bowled and fielded very well in the closing stages and really starved the South Africa batsmen to the point where they had to take undue risks with shots and running. It was a mature performance by coach Dav Whatmore’s boys.

This is India’s second U/19 CWC title and the large crowd that packed into Kinrara Oval was overwhelmingly shouting for the winning side, getting more and more vociferous as the evening progressed. Dozens of India flags fluttered around the ground in support of the team with the 6,000 or so fans enjoying the festive atmosphere.