Scots can’t force win in PNG despite record total
Scotland last night completed their highestever four-day total but were unable to force victory in their Intercontinental Cup clash agauinst Papua New Guinea.
Responding to PNG’S first innings tally of 404, the Scots amassed a huge 514 all out at Amini Park, Port Moresby, to set up the chance of taking maximum points on the final day. However, bat continued to dominate ball as the match petered out into a tame draw, with the hosts easing their way to 263-3 at the close.
Resuming on 482-9 – just seven short of their previous highest score of 489 against Ireland in 1954 – last wicket pair Mark Watt and Chris Sole had little difficulty in hoisting the tally beyond 500.
Sole was eventually last man out, trapped in front by Damien Ravu for 21, while Heriot’s all-rounder Watt finished unbeaten on 81 – his highest international score. Watt faced 166 balls, stroking nine fours and one maximum.
Ali Evans raised Scottish hopes with an early wicket but a century stand between and Tony Ura (75) Lega Siaka (83) carried PNG to safety.
Scotland coach Grant Bradburn said: “I’m very proud of the boys to have performed the way they have over four days on the other side of the world.
“Conditions are very different to what we are used to at home but the guys showed character, skill and discipline to get the first innings bonus points – I’m very pleased.”
Bradburn’s side now turn their attention to two crucial World Cricket League one-day matches against the same opponents tomorrow and Sunday.