ICC U-19 World Cup 2018: Australia storm into final

Christchurch, January 29: A Jack Edwards half-century powered Australia to a six-wicket win over Afghanistan and to the final of the ICC Under 19 World Cup at Hagley Oval on Monday (January 29).

Edwards hit 72 from 65 balls to back up the effort from the bowlers, lead by Jonathan Merlo's four wickets, for a comprehensive win. Earlier, Australia bowled out Afghanistan for 181.

Australia lost an early wicket but a 77-run partnership for the third wicket between Edwards, adjudged man of the match, and captain Jason Sangha (26), carried the run chase forward.

He showed no fear against the variations of spinner Mujeeb Zadran to smash him for a pair of sixes over deep extra cover in the eighth over to put the Aussies on course.

Earlier, Merlo was the pick of the Australian bowlers with 4-24 from his 10 overs as the Afghanistan teenagers were bowled out for 181 in 48 overs having struggled to put together partnerships.