India U-19 through to
World Cup Super League

There were no surprises on Wednesday when defending champions India, Australia and New Zealand became the first teams to book their places in the Super League phase of the ICC Under-19 cricket World Cup.

Australia's 42-run victory over the West Indies means they will almost certainly top Group D, while India's convincing 71-run drubbing of South Africa in Auckland put the title favourites at the head of Group A.

Propelled by a sparkling unbeaten 105 by wicketkeeper- batsman Chandan Madan, the Indians posted a modest 227 for eight in their 50 overs. The elegant right-hander struck eight fours and two sixes as the South African attack struggled to find consistency.

South Africa got off to a solid start with Steven Cook and David Jacobs putting on 44 for the first wicket. But 16-year- old off spinner Rakesh Mohanty took two for 24 and later Irfan Pathan (2-18) and Stuart Binny (2-31) chipped in to dismiss South Africa for 156 in 42.3 overs.

Meanwhile, hosts New Zealand finished their Group C commitments with a six-wicket win over Namibia, who were unable to repeat their heroics of the previous day when they caused a major upset by beating Sri Lanka.

The Kiwis now head the group, leaving Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka to fight it out on Thursday for the second spot and qualification for the Super League.

England have almost certainly sewn up a place in the next round after a convincing win over Papua New Guinea. They now have nine points with Pakistan and Nepal contesting the last qualification spot.

Earlier reports:
India rout Canada in U-19 World Cup
Lanka, Pak shocked

The Indian team profiles | Match schedule

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