Drama unfolded in Windhoek as Ireland scripted a four-wicket heist against Japan in the Under-19 Cricket World Cup 2026, securing their Super-6 passage on Thursday. Japan’s three-match losing streak continued, extinguishing their hopes despite a fighting 247.
Sent in to bat, Japan’s innings was a tale of resilience amid collapse. Hugo Kelly (20) and Nihar Parmar (24 off 51) opened cautiously with 23 runs. Nikhil Pol’s brief 2-run cameo ended quickly, and at 72-4, the middle order was in tatters.
Captain Kazuma Kato Stafford (24) found an ally in Charles Hinje, whose 57 (70 balls, 4×4, 1×6) formed the backbone via a 68-run stand. The tail wagged furiously: Gabriel Hinje (44) and Skylar Nakayama Cook (30) added 62 in 50 balls for the eighth wicket, pushing the total to 247-9.
Ireland pacers Oliver Riley and Adam Lecky dominated with three scalps apiece, Haslett adding two to keep Japan in check.
Ireland’s reply was clinical. Openers James West (19) and Freddie Ogilvie set the tone with 48 in 8.2 overs. Ogilvie (73, laced with 4 fours and 2 sixes) then masterminded a 95-run stand with Lecky (44 off 57), reaching 143 comfortably.
Sebastian Dijksman’s 55 not out guided Ireland past the line in 48 overs. Japan struck back with Kazuma Kato Stafford and Timothy Moore taking 2-2, and Pol and Hinje one each, but it wasn’t enough.
Ireland’s solitary triumph from three games catapults them forward, while Japan’s campaign ends trophyless. The match showcased emerging talents and the fine margins defining youth cricket’s global stage.