U19 World Cup 2024, AUS vs PAK Semifinal | Playing 11 Prediction, Cricket Tips, Preview & Live Streaming

 PAK U19 will face Australia in the 2nd semifinal (X.com)

The U19 Cricket World Cup 2024 has reached its semifinal stage, with the highly anticipated clash between Australia and Pakistan set to take place in the second round. 

The two heavyweight sides will lock horns on Thursday at Willowmoore Park in Benoni from 1.30 PM IST onwards. The winner of this high-stakes contest will meet India in the final of the 2024 U19 World Cup.

AUS U19 Vs PAK U19: Team Previews

Australia U19

The Australian U19 team qualified for the semifinals of the ongoing U19 World Cup undefeated. They topped Super Six Group 2 with three wins in four games, with one getting washed out due to rain.

In their latest game against England U19, the Aussies dominated with a thumping 110-run victory. Skipper Hugh Weibgen contributed with a scintillating ton, and Callum Vidler took care of the chase by chipping in four crucial wickets.

That being said, Australia has been clinical in both departments this tournament. The young guns have shown great resilience and possess an elite skill set to topple any opposition on a given day. 

However, the pressure of the semifinals is a different ball game altogether. With the momentum on their side, the Aussie batters must up their guard as Pakistan will bank on their bowling unit to gain an early advantage.

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Pakistan U19

The Pakistan U19 team qualified for the semifinals with a nail-biting win over Bangladesh in the tournament's final league stage contest. Bangladesh held tight for most of the game, but a sudden collapse levelled the contest. 

With only five needed, Bangladesh’s last pair strived to cross the finish line until Mohammad Zeeshan cleaned up Maruf Mridha to secure a sensational win for his side.

Pakistan U19 team lived to see another day of light in this U19 World Cup tournament owing to the pacer’s heartwarming efforts. 

However, for the semifinals, Pakistan must step with the bat as well. Notably, Pakistan put themselves in a difficult situation against Bangladesh after failing to set up a decent total on board in the first innings. 

That’s an area of weakness Australia will look to exploit in the high-pressure contest.

AUS U19 Vs PAK U19: Match Details & Live Streaming

AUS U19 Vs PAK U19: Willowmoore Park Pitch Report

Willowmoore Park is known for its pitches that assist both batters and bowlers. The surface traditionally favours stroke play due to its even bounce and true nature, making it conducive for batting. 

However, the wicket might slow down as the match progresses, making shot selection crucial for batters as they look to build partnerships and post-competitive totals. Since it’s a high-pressure contest, batting first is an ideal choice, and anything above 250 is a winning total on this wicket.

AUS U19 Vs PAK U19: Probable Playing XIs

Australia U19: Harry Dixon, Sam Konstas, Hugh Weibgen (c), Harjas Singh, Ryan Hicks (wk), Tom Campbell, Oliver Peake, Raf MacMilllan, Charlie Anderson, Tom Straker, Callum Vidler

Pakistan U19: Shamyl Hussain, Shahzaib Khan, Azan Awais, Saad Baig (c & wk), Ahmad Hassan, Haroon Arshad, Arafat Minhas, Ubaid Shah, Mohammad Zeeshan, Ali Asfand, Ali Raza

AUS U19 Vs PAK U19: Cricket Exchange Fantasy Tips

AUS U19 Vs PAK U19: Winner Prediction

Considering the potential of both teams, the match is likely to be decided by small margins, with each team having the opportunity to emerge victorious. However, based on recent performances and the team's overall balance, Australia might have a slight edge over Pakistan in this high-stakes encounter.

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