Will Malajczuk Smashes Fastest Century in U19 World Cup History as Australia Cruise Past Japan

The defending champions Australia have stamped their authority on the ICC Under-19 Men's Cricket World Cup 2026, securing their Super Six berth with a commanding eight-wicket victory over Japan in Namibia. The highlight of the match was 18-year-old Will Malajczuk's breathtaking century that rewrote the tournament's record books.

Malajczuk Etches His Name in History

Will Malajczuk delivered a performance for the ages, blasting the fastest century in U19 World Cup history off just 51 deliveries. The explosive opener finished with 102 runs from 55 balls, dismantling the Japanese bowling attack with remarkable ease.

"A nice one to have on the resume, but anything that helps the team get a win is the main thing, so really happy."

The young star praised the playing conditions in Namibia, noting that the pitch suited his aggressive batting style perfectly.

"Credit to the Japanese bowlers, they bowled really well and I think the pitch helped the way I like to bat, it was really nice and came on good. It slightly got slower as the game went on, but other than that it was a really nice wicket to bat on."

https://www.instagram.com/p/DTvX1S2kv_N

Australia's Remarkable Batting Depth on Display

This tournament has already showcased Australia's formidable batting depth across just two matches. In their opening fixture against Ireland, Steve Hogan starred with a magnificent 115 off 111 balls, supported by Nitish Samuel's unbeaten 77 off 101 deliveries.

The ability to produce different match-winners in consecutive games speaks volumes about the squad's quality and depth, positioning them as genuine contenders to retain their title.

Thriving in the Namibian Heat

The Australian side has adapted remarkably well to the hot Namibian conditions at the Namibia Cricket Ground in Windhoek. Malajczuk offered an amusing insight into managing the heat during the match.

"It wasn't too bad (the heat), but we got a bit hot when we weren't taking wickets, so as soon as we took wickets it got a bit nicer for us ... it wasn't too hot."

Looking Ahead: Sri Lanka Showdown

Australia's next challenge is a mouth-watering clash against Sri Lanka, the other unbeaten team in Group A. Both sides have already secured their Super Six qualification, but this match will determine group standings and momentum heading into the knockout stages.

Malajczuk is confident about the team's prospects against the Sri Lankans.

"That'll be a really good challenge, but I think the way we prepare and look into (Sri Lanka) will be really important ... I think we match up really well against them, but we just need to prepare as well as we can and we should have a good game."

The highly anticipated Group A encounter is scheduled for Friday at the Namibia Cricket Ground in Windhoek.

Australia's Title Defense Gains Momentum

With two comprehensive victories and century-makers emerging in both games, Australia's title defense is firmly on track. The defending champions have demonstrated the batting firepower, bowling discipline, and mental fortitude required to navigate through the tournament's challenging stages.

As the Super Six phase approaches, the Aussie juggernaut shows no signs of slowing down, and opposing teams will need to bring their absolute best to stop this talented young squad from claiming back-to-back U19 World Cup titles.