SA’s u.19 cricketers can stand tall despite semi-final loss to India
Lhuan-dré Pretorius, Steve Stolk, Kwena Maphaka and Dewan Marais stood out for the Proteas u.19's
It was heartbreak for the SA u.19 team this Tuesday (6 February) when they lost their ICC u.19 Cricket World Cup semi-final match against India by 2 wickets.
Their World Cup dream was over after a gallant fight against the undefeated Indians, the current holders of the title.
SA managed 244/7 in their 50 overs in the semi-final at Willowmoore Park. Former Mooirivier alumnus Lhuan-dré Pretorius scored a fantastic 71 (102 balls), while Richard Seletswane managed a patient 64 (100 balls).
SA was in with a chance when they had India on the ropes on 32/4, as Tristan Luus (3/37) and Kwena Maphaka (3/32) bowled superbly. India managed to scrap themselves back into the game, though, with a superb 171-run partnership between Sachin Dhas (96 off 95 balls) and Uday Saharan (81 off 124 balls).
The young Proteas’ failure to capitalise on their opportunities and lack of killer instinct in the middle overs ultimately cost them the match. SA had previously played out of their skins in their matches at the J.B. Marks Oval in Potch in the group and Super Six phases of the competition.
They were also well supported as friends, family, and locals cheered on the young stars as they aimed for World Cup glory.
Kwena Mapahaka (21 wickets) is the top wicket-taker of the tournament and a star in the making. He took three 5-wicket hauls with a best of 6/21 against Sri Lanka, while Pretorius hit the most runs (287) for SA at an average of 57.40 and a strike rate of 94. He also hit three fifties. His opening partner, Steve Stolk, also scored boundaries at will with his hard-hitting approach. His 50 off 13 balls against Scotland ranks as one of the major highlights. Dewan Marais also impressed with two fifties and a high score of 80*.
The final of the u.19 Cricket World Cup takes place at Willowmoore Park in Benoni on Sunday, 11 February.
