Rew century sends Young Lions into U19s World Cup final

Captain Thomas Rew’s century led England to a tense 27-run victory over Australia and secured a place in Friday’s final of the 2026 ICC U19s Men’s World Cup.

Rew struck 110 from 107 balls, and shared a game-defining 135-run stand with Caleb Falconer, in the Young Lions’ 277 for seven.

Australia captain Oliver Peake’s 85-ball century threatened to steal the game away, despite battling with cramp late in his innings, but England’s bowlers held their nerve as they again shared the wickets around.

James Minto had the final say when Peake was caught at point by Sebatian Morgan to bowl Australia out for 250 with 15 balls to spare.

Somerset wicketkeeper-batter Rew showcased his class by scoring all around the wicket as his ability to keep the scoreboard ticking over with Falconer, who added 40, critical in setting up a healthy total. Rew struck 14 boundaries and a six as he reached his century from 97 balls.

England’s bowlers then put the clamps on to reduce Australia to 134 for five after 32 overs. Peake remained, however, and while he was clearly struggling with cramp set up a tense finale with some big hitting.

It proved too big a task though as Minto (two for 30) had him caught to maintain England’s perfect record at this tournament, with six wins from as many games, and keep their dream of securing a first ICC U19s Men’s World Cup success for their country since 1998.

“It’s a great feeling. Just spoke to the boys and said ‘enjoy this’,” Rew, who was named Player of the Match, said at the post-match presentation.

“That was a great game of cricket and one that reflects the tournament so far. The way that Ollie (Peake) batted there was incredible, but to get over the line feels special.

“I definitely wasn’t too calm at the end – I was nervous. I backed the bowlers. That’s what they’re trained for to nail those yorkers at the end and that’s what they did today.”

England will meet the winner of tomorrow’s semi-final between India and Afghanistan in Friday’s final, which will be staged in Harare.

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