Australia Under-19 pulled off a stunning one-wicket victory over Pakistan Under-19 in the second semi-final of the ICC Under-19 World Cup 2024 at Willowmoore Park, Benoni on Thursday. Chasing 180 to win, Australia were reduced to 159/7 in the 43rd over, before Raf McMillan hit a boundary off the penultimate ball of the match to seal the win.

Pakistan, who had won all their previous matches in the tournament, were put in to bat by Australia after losing the toss. They got off to a shaky start, losing both their openers inside the first 10 overs. Abdul Awais and Saad Baig steadied the innings with a 47-run partnership, before Toby Straker ran through the middle order with a sensational spell of 6/24, including a hat-trick in the 28th over. Ali Minhas provided some resistance with a gritty 52, but Pakistan were bowled out for 179 in 48.5 overs.

Australia’s chase was also not smooth, as they lost wickets at regular intervals. Harry Dixon was the only batsman to cross fifty, scoring 50 off 75 balls. Oliver Peake supported him with a 49, but both fell in quick succession, leaving Australia in trouble. Pakistan’s spinners, led by Ali Raza, who claimed 4/34, kept the pressure on the Australian batsmen. However, McMillan held his nerve and hit the winning runs in the final over, sending his teammates into a frenzy.

Australia will now face India, who beat Bangladesh by 10 wickets in the first semi-final, in the final on Sunday. India are the defending champions and have won the title four times, while Australia are looking for their fourth title. It promises to be a thrilling contest between two of the best teams in the tournament.