Scotland closer to Super 12 after beating battling PNG

Scotland wiped out spirited debutants Papua New Guinea’s chances of advancing in the T20 World Cup after a 17-run victory in Oman yesterday. Scotland, who upset Bangladesh in their opening game, were fancied to progress from Group B in the first round to the Super 12.

PNG were crushed by 10 wickets in their opening game by co-hosts Oman and will meet Bangladesh in their last group game on Thursday.

A 92-run partnership between Richie Berrington (70) and wicketkeeper-batsman Matthew Cross (45) formed the cornerstone of Scotland’s total of 165-9 despite PNG claiming six wickets for just 15 runs in the last two overs. PNG came back strongly after losing half of their side within the first six overs for just 35 runs, but were bowled out for 148 with three balls remaining.

Norman Vanua gave PNG an outside chance with a top score of 47 while Kiplin Doriga (18) and Chad Soper (16) added late runs.

Fast bowler Josh Davey picked up 4-18 that included the key wicket of Vanua, who was caught behind in the 18th over.

Crucial stand

Earlier, Berrington featured in the beefy third-wicket stand as he struck six fours and three sixes off 49 balls. Cross consumed 36 balls and smashed two fours and two sixes.

PNG did well late in the innings when Charles Amini made two good catches in the deep to dismiss Cross and Barrington. Fast bowler Kabua Morea (4-31) claimed three of his wickets in the last over during which Michael Leask (9) was run out.

PNG skipper Assad Vala praised his teammate and all-rounder Vanua and said that he likes playing against Scotland.

“The batsmen haven’t shown it yet but the lower order likes to hit the ball,” he said.