Rew Stars as England U19 Romp to Victory; Sudini’s Historic Ton Overshadowed by Bulawayo Rain

England U19 delivered a sharp reminder of their depth and intent at the ICC U19 World Cup on Sunday, storming to an eight-wicket win over Zimbabwe at Harare, while rain intervened to wash out the Group B fixture between New Zealand and the USA in Bulawayo.

England U19 vs Zimbabwe U19

At the Takashinga Sports Club, England’s decision to bowl first set the tone for a controlled and one-sided contest. Zimbabwe closed on 208 for 9 from their 50 overs, a score that always looked light on a surface offering decent value for strokeplay.

Zimbabwe’s top order showed early intent but failed to convert starts into meaningful partnerships. Manny Lumsden led the way with a three-wicket haul that cut through the middle order at a crucial phase, while the rest of the attack maintained discipline to prevent any late surge. 

England’s reply was brisk, composed and ruthless. Thomas Rew was the standout, producing an unbeaten 86 off 66 balls that combined clean striking with smart shot selection.

Ben Mayes complemented him perfectly at the other end, finishing not out on 77, as the pair stitched together a match-winning partnership that took England comfortably past the target. England reached 209 for 2 inside 28 overs, sealing a bonus-point victory that gave their net run rate a significant boost. Rew’s knock earned him the Player of the Match award, a reflection of his growing influence in the tournament.

USA U19 vs NZ 19

While England celebrated in Harare, events in Bulawayo followed a very different script. The Group B clash between New Zealand and the USA at Queens Sports Club was abandoned due to persistent rain, denying both teams a chance to push for a decisive result.

Earlier, the USA had shown resilience after being sent in, posting 253 for 9 from their 50 overs. Nitish Sudini anchored the innings with a composed unbeaten 117 off 133 balls, steering his side through early trouble and giving them a total they could defend. Flynn Morey was the pick of the New Zealand bowlers with four wickets, applying pressure before Sudini steadied the innings.

New Zealand’s chase barely got going. With the score on 12 without loss after one over, heavy rain forced players off the field, and despite a long wait, conditions failed to improve. The match was eventually called off, with both teams sharing the points.

As the group stage unfolds, England’s emphatic win strengthens their position, while the washout leaves Group B finely poised heading into the next round of fixtures.