SA reach U-19 World Cup semis

South Africa completed the semifinal line-up at the ICC Under-19 World Cup when they beat England by 15 runs in the super league on Friday.

England, chasing South Africa's 212 for five total, needed a victory with a bonus point to pip their opponents to a place in the last four.

But they lost regular wickets after openers Kadeer Ali (44) and Balil Shafayat (38) gave them a good start.

England continued to go for the bonus point knowing a four- point victory was not enough and were eventually bowled out for 197 in the 40th over.

In the other match, Australia cruised to a seven-wicket win over New Zealand and picked up a bonus point in the process.

Skipper Cameron White, in line for the player of the tournament prize, was 80 not out and Shaun Marsh hit 70 as Australia passed New Zealand's total of 194 after 39.3 overs.

Scotland's attempts to gain a semifinal place in the plate championship foundered as they lost by 48 runs to surprise packets Nepal, who were already assured of a place in the last four.

In the super league semifinals, South Africa will play India on Sunday and favourites Australia meet West Indies next Wednesday.

In the plate, Zimbabwe play Namibia on Monday while Nepal face Bangladesh on Wednesday.

Scores:

Super league group two:

South Africa beat England by 15 runs. South Africa 212-5 (Ryan Bailey 55 not out; Gordon Muchall 3-55), England 197 in 40 overs (Kadeer Ali 44; Ian Postman 4-56, Brendon Reddy 3-37).

Australia beat New Zealand by seven wickets. New Zealand 194 (Jesse Ryder 70; Aaron Bird 3-50, Xavier Doherty 3-23), Australia 196-3 in 39.3 overs (Cameron White 80 not out, Shaun Marsh 70).

Australia, South Africa, India and West Indies qualify for semifinals.

Plate championship:

Nepal beat Scotland by 48 runs.

Nepal 205-5, Scotland 157.

Namibia beat Canada by 141 runs.

Namibia 226, Canada 85.

Nepal, Namibia, Bangladesh and Zimbabwe qualify for semifinals.

Mail Cricket Editor