Scots close to Desert T20 semis

Josh Davey took four wickets as Scotland cricketers beat the Netherlands by seven runs yesterday to move a step closer to the Desert T20 Challenge semi-finals.

The Netherlands were cruising towards their victory target of 149 in Abu Dhabi only to collapse from 95 for three to 141 all out.

Davey ended a 53-run opening partnership between Ben Cooper and Michael Rippon on his way to four for 34 while Con de Lange’s two for 17 was crucial in slowing the Netherlands down.

Richie Berrington topscored for the Scots – who beat Hong Kong in their opener – with 38 before De Lange and Safyaan Sharif added quick late runs as they reached 148 for 7.

Con de Lange, left, celebrates taking the wicket of Michael Rippon. Picture: Getty Images.