U19 World Cup: Chamuditha’s Century and Akash’s Four-Wicket Haul Keep Sri Lanka’s Semi-Final Dreams Alive against SA
By Lions Roar Aotearoa Sports Bureau (Based on reports from ESPNcricinfo)
POTCHEFSTROOM, SOUTH AFRICA (Friday, January 30, 2026) — In a high-stakes Super Six encounter, the Sri Lanka Under-19s secured a vital five-wicket victory over South Africa, thanks to a masterclass century from Viran Chamuditha and a disciplined bowling performance led by Vigneshwaran Akash.
The win keeps Sri Lanka in the hunt for a semi-final spot in the ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup 2026, though their fate now rests in the hands of other results.
🏏 Match Summary: Sri Lanka vs. South Africa
- South Africa U19: 261/7 (50 overs)
- Sri Lanka U19: 265/5 (46 overs)
- Result: Sri Lanka won by 5 wickets (with 24 balls to spare).
🔥 The Run Chase: Chamuditha Takes Charge
Chasing 262 for survival, Sri Lanka faced an early wobble when opener Dimantha Mahavithana fell cheaply. However, Viran Chamuditha stepped up with a sensational 110 off just 94 balls, smashing 13 boundaries and a six.
- Key Partnership: Chamuditha anchored a match-defining 143-run stand with Senuja Wekunagoda (48).
- The Finish: Captain Vimath Dinsara (32) and late cameos from Chamika Heenatigala and Dulnith Sigera ensured Sri Lanka reached the target with four overs to spare.
🎯 The Bowling Effort: Akash Strikes
Earlier in the day, South Africa’s Jorich Van Schalkwyk threatened to take the game away with a gritty 116. However, Sri Lanka’s Vigneshwaran Akash proved to be the difference-maker.
- Akash’s Impact: He broke the 96-run opening stand and finished with figures of 4 for 64, consistently picking up wickets to prevent a massive total.
- Support: Kavija Gamage chipped in with two wickets, though Van Schalkwyk was dropped on 50, a mistake that cost Sri Lanka 66 extra runs.
📊 Qualification Scenario: The “Wait and See” Game
Despite the victory, Sri Lanka’s path to the semi-finals is not guaranteed.
| Team | Status | Scenario |
| Sri Lanka | Alive | Must hope Afghanistan lose their next match. |
| Afghanistan | Advantage | A win against Ireland will see them through to the semis. |
| South Africa | Eliminated | Finished 5th in the group after 4 consecutive losses. |
