Drama peaked at Takashinga Sports Club as England’s Ben Mays unleashed 191 runs in 117 balls, studded with 18 boundaries and 8 maximums, against Scotland in the U19 World Cup. Two runs shy of the record, his 65-ball century redefined English batting benchmarks in the tournament.
Starting shakily at 12/1 after Dawkins’ exit, England soared thanks to Mays and Moore’s explosive 188-run stand. Moore’s fiery 81 paved the way before Mays anchored partnerships: 47 with Rev, 84 with Faulkner, and 23 with Albert. The innings closed at 404/6, boosted by Ahmad (15*) and Morgan (24*)’s flourish.
Scotland’s bowlers, led by Woodhouse (3 wickets), Jones (2), and Chaplin (1), tried valiantly but couldn’t stem the tide.
Matching Boyagoda’s iconic 191 from 2018, Mays nearly surpassed Chamuditha’s 192. This tale of ‘almost’ greatness highlights Mays’ maturity and power, positioning him as a prospect to watch. As England eyes victory, Mays’ innings exemplifies the thrill and heartbreak intertwined in youth cricket’s grand stage.