England U19 Sets Challenging Target Against Australia in World Cup Semi-Final

In a thrilling semi-final match of the ICC U19 Men's Cricket World Cup 2026, England's Under 19 team has set a challenging target of 278 runs for Australia. Captain Thomas Rew's outstanding century of 110 runs was pivotal in building this score. Despite early setbacks, Rew and Caleb Falconer stabilized the innings with a significant partnership. As England aims for their second title, they face a tough challenge against the defending champions. This match promises to be an exciting encounter as both teams vie for a spot in the final.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 3, 2026, 17:06 IST

England U19 Sets a Target of 278 Runs

In the first semi-final of the ICC U19 Men's Cricket World Cup 2026, the England Under 19 cricket team has established a formidable target of 278 runs for their rivals, Australia. This match is taking place at the Queen's Sports Club in Bulawayo on Tuesday.

Captain Thomas Rew Shines

Choosing to bat first in this crucial match, England's captain, Thomas Rew, played a pivotal role by scoring an impressive 110 runs. He reached his century with a single in the 39th over, featuring 14 boundaries and one six.

England Faces Early Challenges

The opening pair of Ben Dawkins and Joseph Moores faced a tough start, with Australian bowler Will Byrom claiming the first wicket in his opening over, dismissing Dawkins for just one run.

Ben Mayes, in good form, joined Moores, and they managed to put together a partnership of over 50 runs for the second wicket. However, Moores was caught in front of the wicket by Aryan Sharma after scoring 25 runs off 33 balls. Mayes followed shortly after, bowled by Hayden Schiller for 24 runs off 33 balls.

Rew and Falconer Stabilize the Innings

Rew partnered with Caleb Falconer, who contributed 40 runs off 53 balls, and together they built a solid fourth-wicket partnership of 135 runs, keeping the scoreboard ticking.

Australia's Bowlers Fight Back

Naden Cooray ended their partnership in the 36th over. Falconer’s innings included four boundaries. Ralphie Albert added a quick 15 runs off 13 balls before falling to Cooray.

Farhan Ahmed joined Rew with nine overs remaining, but Rew was run out due to a direct hit from Steven Hogan while attempting a tight single in the 43rd over.

The Australian bowlers tightened their grip in the final overs, limiting England to a total of 277 runs. Ahmed remained not out with 28 runs off 26 balls, helping his team set a competitive score in this crucial match.

Chasing the Final

With their sights set on a second title, England aims to overcome the defending champions, Australia, and secure a place in the final.

Among full members, India holds the record with five World Cup victories, followed by Australia with four, Pakistan with two, and Bangladesh, England, South Africa, and the West Indies each with one title.