U19 World Cup 2026: South Africa Smash Record 329-Run Win, Pakistan and Sri Lanka Cruise to Victory

The ICC Under-19 Men's Cricket World Cup 2026 witnessed three commanding performances on Monday as South Africa, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka all secured convincing victories to strengthen their positions in the tournament.

South Africa Create History with 329-Run Demolition of Tanzania

The Proteas produced a performance for the ages, recording the second-biggest margin of victory in U19 World Cup history with a staggering 329-run triumph over Tanzania.

Batting Masterclass from the Proteas

Asked to bat first, South Africa's top order laid the foundation with opener Jorich van Schalkwyk setting the tone with a brisk 47. His partner Mogamat Lagadien contributed 32 as the pair got the innings off to a flying start.

The real damage, however, came from the middle order. Captain Muhammad Bulbulia anchored the innings superbly, reaching his maiden century of the tournament with a composed 108. But it was Jason Rowles who stole the show with an unbeaten 125 off just 101 deliveries.

The Bulbulia-Rowles partnership yielded a remarkable 201 runs, taking South Africa to the cusp of 300 before the fireworks truly began.

Paul James Provides Explosive Finish

Paul James produced a stunning cameo that had the Tanzanian bowlers scrambling for answers. His 46 off just 18 balls included five towering sixes and two boundaries, propelling South Africa to a mammoth 397/5 – their highest-ever total in U19 World Cup history and the eighth-best overall in the tournament.

Tanzania Crumble Under Pressure

The chase was never going to be easy, and Tanzania's hopes evaporated quickly as they lost four wickets inside the first ten overs with just 13 runs on the board. Mohammedi Mbaki offered brief resistance, but the South African bowlers were relentless, bowling out Tanzania to complete their record victory.

This represents South Africa's largest margin of victory by runs in U19 World Cup history.

Pakistan Overcome Scotland with Clinical Performance

Pakistan opened their account in the tournament with a comfortable six-wicket victory over Scotland, showcasing their strength with both bat and ball.

Ali Raza's Devastating Opening Spell

Pakistan's decision to bowl first paid immediate dividends as pacer Ali Raza struck twice in the very first over, setting the tone for what would be a dominant bowling display.

Scotland captain Thomas Knight and Rory Grant attempted to rebuild with a 47-run partnership, but Momin Qamar broke through to dismiss Grant and put Pakistan firmly in control.

Despite contributions from Ollie Jones, Manu Saraswat, and Finlay Jones lower down the order, Scotland could only manage 187 from 48.1 overs. Raza finished with outstanding figures of 4/37, while Qamar claimed three wickets.

Usman Khan Anchors the Chase

Pakistan's openers Ali Baloch and Sameer Minhas built a solid 43-run stand before Ollie Jones struck twice to give Scotland hope. But Usman Khan and Ahmed Hussain combined for a match-defining 111-run partnership that effectively ended the contest.

Khan completed his half-century en route to a mature 75, guiding Pakistan to their target in 43.1 overs with six wickets in hand.

Sri Lanka Secure Super 6s Berth with Ireland Victory

Sri Lanka confirmed their place in the Super 6s stage with a convincing 106-run victory over Ireland, overcoming an early wobble to post a competitive total.

Captain Dinsara Leads from the Front

After losing both openers inside four overs with just 12 on the board, Sri Lanka found themselves in trouble at 59/3. Captain Vimath Dinsara took responsibility, crafting an 80-run partnership with Kavija Gamage to steady the ship.

Dinsara continued his excellent form with the bat, falling agonizingly short of a century on 95. His innings provided the platform for Sri Lanka's recovery.

Heenatigala Provides the Finishing Touch

Chamika Heenatigala joined Dinsara for a century partnership of his own, completing his half-century as Sri Lanka posted 267/5 from their 50 overs.

Irish Resistance Proves Futile

Callum Armstrong started brightly for Ireland at the top of the order, but wickets continued to fall at regular intervals at the other end. Dulnith Sigera and Rasith Nimsara combined for seven wickets as Ireland were bowled out for 161 in 40.1 overs.

Reuben Wilson and Oliver Riley added runs lower down the order but could not prevent the comprehensive defeat.

Upcoming Fixtures

Thursday's Matches

• South Africa vs West Indies
• Pakistan vs Zimbabwe (hosts)
• Ireland vs Japan

Wednesday's Matches

• Tanzania vs Afghanistan
• Scotland vs England

Friday's Match

• Sri Lanka vs Australia

Tournament Outlook

With these results, South Africa have firmly established themselves as one of the teams to beat in the tournament. Their record-breaking performance against Tanzania demonstrates the depth of talent in their squad, with Rowles emerging as a genuine match-winner.

Pakistan's balanced attack and Sri Lanka's resilience under pressure suggest both teams will be serious contenders as the tournament progresses into the Super 6s stage.

The U19 World Cup continues to showcase the future stars of international cricket, with several players marking themselves as ones to watch for years to come.