India are set to clash with hosts South Africa in the first semifinal of the U-19 World Cup, and the defending champions enter the match as firm favorites. With an impeccable record of five consecutive wins in the tournament, India's under-19 team has showcased exceptional talent, excelling in both batting and bowling.
Eighteen-year-old Musheer Khan has been a standout performer, leading the batting charts with 334 runs at an impressive average of 83.50. India's captain, Uday Saharan, has been equally influential, accumulating 304 runs with two fifties and a century at an average of 61.60.
Sachin Dhas exhibited his prowess with a crucial 116 in the last Super Six game against Nepal, rescuing India from a challenging situation. India's bowling has been spearheaded by Saumy Kumar Pandey, the vice-captain and left-arm spinner, who boasts an enviable economy rate of 2.17 and has taken 16 wickets, including three four-fors.
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The seamers, Naman Tiwari and Raj Limbani, have thrived with Pandey's accuracy, contributing to India's dominant bowling displays. India's recent successes in South Africa and their impressive winning streak positions them as strong contenders for a place in the final.
While India's batters are in top form, the challenge for South Africa lies in countering the on-song Indian bowlers. South African pacer Kwena Maphaka has been a standout performer, claiming three five-wicket hauls in five games and topping the bowling charts with 18 scalps.
The semifinal promises to be an exciting battle between India's in-form batters and Maphaka's lethal pace. The outcome of this match could potentially set the stage for a blockbuster final, with the possibility of an India-Pakistan clash.
When will India vs South Africa U-19 World Cup semifinal match be played?
The India vs South Africa U-19 World Cup match will be played on Saturday, February 6.
Where will India vs South Africa U-19 World Cup semifinal match be played?
The India vs South Africa U-19 World Cup semifinal match will be played at the Willowmoore Park in Benoni.
What time will India vs South Africa U-19 World Cup semifinal match start?
The India vs South Africa U-19 World Cup semifinal match will start at 1:30 PM IST.
Where to watch live streaming of India vs South Africa U-19 World Cup semifinal match?
You can watch the India vs South Africa U-19 World Cup semifinal match live stream for free on Disney+ Hotstar.
Where to watch live telecast of India vs South Africa U-19 World Cup semifinal match?
The India vs South Africa U-19 World Cup semifinal match will be telecast on the Star Sports Network.
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(With PTI inputs)