^ I also thought Australia would win comfortably but it was rather nailbiting finish. Regarding final, India looks better compared to Australians, India has been throughout consistent in this tourney and if we talk about history then India also has more trophies in u-19 wcs than Australia, so I'd bet on India to win this one.
They had to chase 180 runs and that made me believe that Australia would be able to get the small target. Unfortunately for Australia Pakistan bowled and fielded well and the match went till the 49th over with 9 wickets gone for Australia. The problem with India is that they tend to choke in the semifinals and finals of the ICC tournament like we saw in the last World Cup. I fear these young lads do not come into the same situation as their seniors did while playing at home and in the finals of the WC.
I know that the Indian U19 is very good and has got a good batting depth. Still, the uncertainties these kids created in the semifinals were actual and thanks to Dhas and the captain of the team they were able to overcome a certain defeat. They have been playing well through all the games and they have always been on the dominating side whereas in the semifinals they were on the receiving end.
Tom Straker is a skilled bowler who can inflict significant damage on the Indian batting line-up. After his impressive performance yesterday, the Indian team is certainly aware of his capabilities. In a crucial match against Pakistan, Straker single-handedly dismantled their batting attack by taking six wickets. What a way to announce the world at a small age that he has to be in the national team to represent his country.