BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - ENGLAND has shown strength and maturity in their outings, thus far, by remaining undefeated in the group stage of the ICC U-19 Cricket World Cup, as they warmed up for the knockout round of the tournament.
The English brushed aside the United Arab Emirates (UAE) by 189 runs in their final group game to record their third consecutive victory after demolishing defending champions Bangladesh and Canada earlier in the competition.
Again, Tom Prest has led with the most devastating innings of the competition, striking 154 from 115 deliveries - with 13 boundaries and four sixes, including what was a monstrous hit over the bowler's head.
He held several partnerships, including a 117-run with William Luxton (41) as they posted a mammoth 362/6 off their allotted 50 overs.
Jacob Bethell also chipped in with 61 at the top of the order, while George Thomas stroked 41.
In reply, UAE were bowled out for 173 inside 39 overs, limping to the total with the assistance of Ali Nasseer (54).
Rehan Ahmed was the pick of the bowlers with four wickets, while the others bowlers shared the spoil.
England will now travel to Antigua and Barbuda for their Quarter Finals encounter, while the UAE will go to Trinidad and Tobago to play in the Plate competition for placement - with qualification for the next tournament on the line.
Action continues today (Jan. 21) with the West Indies taking on Sri Lanka in a must win encounter at the Conaree Cricket Club Ground.
