Australia U19 vs Afghanistan U19, Super League Semi-Final 1 - Live Cricket Score, Commentary

After two brilliant wins in their respective quarterfinals, Australia and Afghanistan will battle it out in the first semifinal for a place in the final of the ICC Under-19 World Cup in Christchurch.

In what could have easily been labelled as the match of the tournament so far, Australia picked up a 31-run shock win over England to seal a spot in the semifinal. While the margin might not seem much, that Australia picked up a win with that margin was commendable factoring in that they were defending 128.

An eight-wicket haul from Lloyd Pope, who finished with figures of 8 for 35 after England were cruising in the chase at 47 for 0 only to be bowled out for 96, left them shellshocked as Australia cruised into the semifinal where they were to face the winners of the clash between New Zealand and Afghanistan.

Afghanistan, in their quarterfinal, led by their spinners mauled New Zealand by a massive 202-runs to continue their fabulous tournament. They not just scored as many as 309 after four of their batsmen scored over 60 after calling right at the toss, but bowled out hosts New Zealand in under 30 overs.

Come the clash against Australia, Australia's campaign hasn't had standout performers but a culmination of a team effort coming together. Led by skipper Jason Sangha, they have done well to pull off wins when required after having fallen to India in their tournament opener. While Afghanistan's strength is their spin, Australia might be vulnerable to just that, which could peg them back.

However, the fact that Afghanistan even made it so far is of interest to the cricket world. If they can pip one of the heavyweights, it would add another feather to their already ornated cap.