The Scotsman

Scots bowlers let Ireland off the hook after strong start to Dubai clash

● Munsey and Coetzer survive to close

- By WILLIAM DICK

Scotland let their Irish rivals off the hook as honours were shared on the opening day of their Interconti­nental Cup clash yesterday.

After Ireland won the toss and elected to bat at the Dubai Internatio­nal Stadium, the Scots had them reeling on 166-8.

However, Grant Bradburn’s side were unable to produce the knockout blow as Ireland’s batsmen added 85 runs for the last two wickets to reach 251 all out.

In reply, Scotland made good progress to close on 37-0 with George Munsey 23no and skipper Kyle Coetzer, pictured, unbeaten on 13.

Coetzer’s men made the perfect start when Chris Sole had the dangerous Paul Stirling caught behind for just nine.

Will Porterfiel­d and Andrew Balbirnie added 63 for the second wicket but, when Stuart Whittingha­m removed the former and Calum Macleod brilliantl­y caught Balbirnie off Mark Watt’s bowling, the Scots seized control.

Sole and Whittingha­m, only playing after a last-gasp ICC eligibilit­y rule change, took advantage of the reprieve with three wickets apiece.

That feat was matched by Watt while there was an internatio­nal debut wicket for Prestwick spinner Mitchell Rao.

However, the experience­d Kevin O’brien, supported by the tail, put Ireland back in contention with a defiant 78 not out, including six boundaries and three maximums.

Scotland’s batsmen will bid to build on their steady start to claim the first innings bonus points when play resumes this morning.

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