PESHAWAR (Pajhwok): A remarkable all-round performance by Tanveer Sangha saw the Aussies romp home in a photo-finish against Afghanistan on Sunday.

In the 5th-place play-off at the Under-19 World Cup at Potchefstroom, Australia reached the target Afghanistan set them for the loss of six wickets. A cricket website reported.

Sangha, who dismissed four Afghan batsmen, later smashed an unbeaten 46 to guide the Aussies to a pulsating triumph, according to ESPNcricinfo. Sam Fanning (62) and Lachlan Hearne (48) also helped Australia’s cause.

Batting first, Afghanistan Under-19 were restricted to 191 for the loss of seven wickets. Farhan Zakhel top-scored with 91 for his side that showed poor application. Sangha claimed four scalps.

Sangha, whose intelligent spin bowling kept Afghanistan in check, hit the penultimate ball of the game for a towering six to get Australia a well-deserved win.

Afghan bowlers had the Australian top order on the ropes at two for three at the start of their chase. But Fanning and Hearne and steadied the Aussie innings.

The two lifted Australia to 99 for three before Afghanistan struck again and applied brakes on run-scoring. The Aussies struggled at 123 for six at the start of the 39th over.

As Australia needed 69 runs in 71 balls, Sangha came to the crease and he played a breezy knock of 46 not out off 40 balls, including five fours and a winning six.

PAN Monitor/mud

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