New Zealand knocked Sri Lanka out of the ICC Under-19 World Cup with a three-wicket win while Afghanistan joined them in the quarter-finals following a 160-run victory over United Arab Emirates in Bloemfontein on Wednesday.
Chasing 243, New Zealand needed six runs off the final two balls and number nine Kristian Clarke pulled off a memorable win with a six over deep midwicket, sending his team to the quarterfinals. Sri Lanka had posted 242 for nine.
Afghanistan too advanced to the next stage with their second win in as many games. They were too good for the UAE, bowling them out for 105 after scoring 265 for six.
Ibrahim Zadran (87) top-scored with the bat while leggie Shafiqullah Ghafari picked up a five-wicket haul.
Pakistan were stretched by Zimbabwe but they managed to eke out a 38-run win in Potchefstroom. Mohammad Haris (81) top-scored as Pakistan put up 294 for nine. Zimbabwe fought hard courtesy Milton Shumba (58) and Wesley Madhevere (53) but faltered towards the end to be 256 all out.
Pakistan’s victory over Zimbabwe means both they and Bangladesh will progress from Group C with a game to spare, while Afghanistan lead the way in Group D after their win over the United Arab Emirates.
South Africa’s victory over Canada means the final group game between the host nation and UAE will see the winner join Afghanistan in the Super League.
(With inputs from ICC Media Zone)