Rishabh Pant century takes India into U19 World Cup semi-finals

Wicketkeeper batsman Rishabh Pant scythed through a hapless Namibian attack as the Indians secured safe passage to the semi-final of the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup. After securing a 197 runs victory. Pant continued his amazing form as he smashed a brilliant century. Supporting knocks from Sarfaraz Khan and Armaan Jaffer helped the Indians reach 349. In reply, Namibia were blasted out for a paltry 152 in 39 overs. Opener Niko Davin showed some intent as he smashed 33 including a massive six. The rest of the Namibian batting lineup failed to put up any resistance.

Ishan Kishan won the toss and chose to bat on a seemingly dry surface at Fatullah. His decision paid off as the Rishabh Pant show began. He ripped through the Namibian bowling attack slamming 111 off just 96 deliveries. His impressive innings included 14 boundaries and 2 sixes. He was well supported by Anmolpreet Singh who made a gritty 41.

Sarfaraz Khan smashed a run-a-ball 76 and stitched an impressive 98 run with Armaan Jaffer. The latter impressed with a stroke full display ended with 64 off 55. Mahipal Lormor’s cameo (41 of 21) towards the end of the innings saw the Indians finish on a massive 349/6 from their 50 overs.

Namibia opener Niko Davin showed his intent early on in the innings, smashing 5 boundaries and a massive six. Zane Green and SJ Loftie-Eaton put up a brief resistance before the Indian bowlers ran a riot. Jurgen Linde made a quick 25 before Mayank Dagar and Anmolpreet Singh finished off the tail. The Namibian innings folded up for 152 in 39 overs.

India will face the winner of the fixture between England and Sri Lanka in the semi-final.

Brief Scores

India 349/6 in 50 overs (Pant 111; Coetzee 3/78)

Namibia 152 all out in 39 overs (Davin 33; Dagar 3/25)

Man of the Match: Rishabh Pant