After making a significant impact in the Big Bash League, rising Australian cricket star Oliver Peake has now led his national Under-19 team into the semi-finals of the ICC Under-19 World Cup with a captain’s century against the West Indies in Zimbabwe. The match, held at the Harare Sports Club, saw Peake score a crucial 109 off 117 balls, cementing the defending champions’ victory.
Geelong’s promising cricketer, Peake, was quick to commend his bowlers for holding their nerve as the West Indies launched a fierce counter-attack, eventually falling short by 22 runs. Peake’s innings guided Australia to a formidable 7-314 after being put in to bat, but the match was far from over as the West Indies mounted a strong response.
Key Performances and Turning Points
As the West Indies began their chase, Australia’s captain had to rely on his bowlers, particularly paceman Charlie Lachmund and left-arm spinner Aryan Sharma, to secure the win in a tense finish. Sharma, who had earlier dropped a catch, redeemed himself with a crucial catch in the deep off Lachmund’s bowling in the 48th over. He then took two wickets in consecutive balls in the penultimate over to seal the victory.
Lachmund, despite a shaky start where he was targeted by the aggressive West Indies opener Zachary Carter, showed composure when it mattered most, finishing with figures of 4-66 from his nine overs. “It’s probably great for us to get tested early on,” Peake remarked after the match. “They definitely came out swinging. I was really impressed by the way the guys came back for their second and third spells.”
“Touching on Schiller, I thought he was awesome. A lot of the time he goes unrewarded and for him to get two or three today and few maidens, dry up one end, he’s so reliable. That’s why we love having him there.” – Oliver Peake
Adapting to New Conditions
The match in Harare was a stark contrast to Australia’s previous games on the seamer-friendly pitches in Windhoek, Namibia. There, the team had cruised to victory, allowing Peake little opportunity to showcase his batting prowess. However, he made up for it in Zimbabwe, supported by a strong start from left-handed opener Will Malajczuk, who scored 48 off 30 balls, and his partner Nitesh Samuel, who added 56 off 74 balls.
“They set it up really well,” Peake said of his openers. “For us to be over 100 off about 13 overs was the ideal start, and looking back on the game, it was lucky we did because it definitely got a bit more tricky as the game went on.”
Peake, watched by his family in the stands, controlled the innings with nine fours and a towering six, bringing up his century in style. He received valuable support from wicketkeeper Alex Lee Young and Jayden Draper, who contributed 45 and 29 runs respectively.
Looking Ahead to the Semi-Finals
With their victory, Australia has secured a spot in the semi-finals and will face the runner-up from the other group, likely either England or India. Peake, reflecting on the journey so far, emphasized the importance of team camaraderie and enjoyment. “Keep enjoying it,” was his message to his teammates. “What we’ve done so well so far is enjoy each other’s company.”
The Australian squad, resting key players like Will Byrom and Kasey Barton, initially struggled to adapt to the slower pitch conditions, allowing the West Indies to race to 1-123 off 15 overs. However, debutant leg-spinner Naden Cooray made an immediate impact, dismissing Carter with his first delivery and finishing with an economical spell.
“It’s great to be able to draw some inspiration from two years ago and I’m happy that I can pass on a few stories from that. But the motivation levels are really high, and for the meantime just soaking up this experience.” – Oliver Peake
Australia’s Path to the Semi-Finals
- Jan 16: Australia beat Ireland by 8 wickets
- Jan 20: Australia beat Japan by 8 wickets
- Jan 23: Australia beat Sri Lanka by 9 wickets
- Super Sixes, Jan 25: Australia beat South Africa by 6 wickets
- Super Sixes, Jan 28: Australia beat West Indies by 22 runs
Australia’s next challenge will be the semi-final match on February 3 at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, followed by the second semi-final on February 4 and the final on February 6 at the Harare Sports Club.
The Australian squad, led by Oliver Peake, includes players from various states, showcasing a blend of talent and potential. As they prepare for the upcoming matches, the team remains focused on their goal of clinching the Under-19 World Cup title once again.
