Sri Lanka ended Australia’s unbeaten run in the ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup with a thrilling 12-run victory in their final group match. Although Australia had already qualified for the semi-finals, they were unable to carry their flawless record into the last four. Sri Lanka set a target of 100, with Chamudi Praboda leading the charge, taking 2/13 as Australia struggled to build momentum. With Australia needing 20 runs off the final over, Sri Lanka held their nerve to seal the win.
Australia, despite a strong bowling performance from Lily Bassingthwaighte (3/7), fell short in their chase. Sri Lanka’s victory marked the perfect ending to their campaign, while Australia now faces South Africa in the semi-final on January 31, with India taking on England the same day.
Earlier, Nigeria secured a thrilling six-run victory over Ireland, concluding their campaign on a high note. Nigeria posted 94/7 in 20 overs, with Christabel Chukwuonye contributing 25 runs. Despite early setbacks, the team, led by Lilian Ude’s 3/11 with the ball and a crucial 12 runs with the bat, held Ireland to 88 all out. Ude’s all-round performance earned her the Player of the Match award.
BOX
Scoreboard
Sri Lanka 99/8 in 20 overs (Sanjana Kavindi 19, Sumudu Nisansala 18; Lily Bassingthwaighte 3/7)
Australia 87/8 in 20 overs (Caoimhe Bray 27, Eleanor Larosa 18; Chamudi Praboda 2/13)
Nigeria 94/7 in 20 overs (Christabel Chukwuonye 25, Peculiar Agboya 17; Kia McCartney 2/13)
Ireland 88 all out in 18.4 overs (Rebecca Lowe 21, Millie Spence 14; Lilian Ude 3/11) by 6 runs.
