2018 U-19 World Cup: Instances when reigning champions were ousted in the first round

South Africa in 2016

The Tony de Zorzi led South African side ended the 2016 U19 World Cup in 11th place

Before West Indies this year, South Africa attained the feat of getting knocked out in the group stage as the reigning U19 World Champs in the previous edition at Bangladesh. South Africa were in an extremely easy group with hosts Bangladesh, Namibia and Scotland.

The Proteas began with a 43-run defeat to Bangladesh at Chittagong. In their following game at Cox’s Bazar, South Africa were shocked by Namibia in a rather exciting game where Namibia chased down a meagre 137 with only two wickets to spare. This confirmed their elimination from the competition.

The Rainbow Nation salvaged some pride by thrashing Scotland in their final group game which was also held at Cox’s Bazar.

In the plate quarter-finals, South Africa defeated Ireland by 8 wickets at the same venue to qualify for the semi-finals where they were thrashed by Zimbabwe. A terrific spell of 4/10 by Richard Ngarava restricted the Proteas to just 91 which Zimbabwe chased down in 22 overs. This meant that South Africa would have to play the 11th place play-off against New Zealand at Cox’s Bazar yet again.

The Proteas thrashed the Kiwis by 138 runs to end the tournament in 11th place.