Weibgen, Holt secure Aussies victory to level series

A no-fuss morning session from Australia's Under-19s has seen them even the ledger in their multi-format series with England as they won the second four-day game by seven wickets.

The Aussies required just 54 for victory when they resumed at 3-133 on day four and passed the target without the loss of a wicket on Thursday.

Hugh Weibgen notched his second half-century of the game with 62 not out, while nightwatchman Luke Holt showed he is more than just that by remaining unbeaten on 32 when the home side reached England's target of 187.

Leg-spinner Holt had come in late on day three as cover for skipper Joel Davies after opener Ethan Jamieson fell just before play came to a close; England spinner Bertie Foreman trapping him lbw.

After surviving a tense period before stumps on Wednesday, Holt displayed the confidence of a regular number five this morning, striking six boundaries despite not getting off the mark until his 15th ball.

He was aptly supported by Queenslander Weibgen who continued on from his first innings 56 with another impressive knock.

It brings to an end a fantastic eight days of red-ball cricket between the two sides in Brisbane, with both contests fluctuating throughout.

Liam Blackford's fourth-innings century in game one was all in vain as England claimed a thrilling win by 24 runs, while England skipper Jacob Bethel struck 123 in his side's loss this week.

A brilliant team bowling effort from the Australians in game two set up the win, with no bowler taking more than five wickets across the two innings.

A quartet of fifties in the first innings was also crucial, as Australia responded strongly from their initial loss.

The squads will now turn their attention to the shorter format, with the first of three ODIs kicking off on Monday.

Main image credit: Brody Grogan Photography

Australia v England Under 19 Men 2023

First four-day match: England U19s won by 24 runs

Second four-day match: Australia U19s won by seven wickets

First 50-over match: Australia U19s won by 119 runs

Second 50-over match: Australia U19s won by one wicket

Third 50-over match: England U19s won by 41 runs

Only T20 match: Australia U19s won by 10 wickets