NZ U-19s make semi final despite loss

The New Zealand Under-19 team have lost to the Australian Under-19 team by six wickets in the Quadrangular Series at Tony Ireland Park in Townsville. New Zealand were dismissed for just 146 during the final round robin match and Australia made no mistake in chasing down the below-par target. Having won the toss New Zealand opted to bat first and got off to a solid start at 69 for one. However, when Martin Davidson was caught on 37 a collapse ensued and the team never really recovered. Ben Horne played well for 29 and Cameron Fletcher was also impressive finishing the innings with an unbeaten 31, but the rest of the batting line-up failed to withstand the pressure from the Australian bowling attack and New Zealand were eventually dismissed for 146 after 48.4 overs. Joshua McClelland was the chief wicket taker for Australia and finished his ten overs with figures of four for 28. In reply the home team always looked in control and were guided to victory by William Bosisto, who finished the innings with an unbeaten 67. Opener Cameron Bancroft also chipped in with 30 to give Australia a comprehensive six wicket win after 35.2 overs. The result sees New Zealand finish third and they will now face Australia in a semi-final on Thursday.