Scotland recorded their first win of the current Cricket World Cup League 2 tri-series with a nervy four-wicket win over USA in Dubai.
Winning the toss and opting to bowl first, Scotland got off to a disappointing start as they could only claim one wicket in the first 20 overs, Josh Davey (2/46) edging Patel to MacLeod for 0 in the second over with just his second delivery of the match.
The lack of wicket pressure allowed Xavier Marshall (50) and Steven Taylor (56) to combine for a 87-run stand for the second wicket, making the Scottish attack toil in familiar conditions at an ICC Academy pitch used in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier.
Back to back wicket maidens from Hamza Tahir (2/45) and Mark Watt (3/33) allowed Scotland to strike back and get a foot in the game, removing Marshall and Aaron Jones (0) in quick succession.
The loss of two sudden wickets caused the USA camp to stir slightly, with Ian Holland (8) and Stephen Taylor departing soon after before Homraj (27) and Patel (38) combined for a 56-stand to resist the inspired Scottish attack.
Late runs from Stevenson (34) allowed USA to climb to 245/9.
In reply, Scotland lost three wickets inside the first 20 overs with Coetzer (13), Cross (16) and Jones (24) back in the dugout to cause nerves as the squad searched for their first win of the tournament.
Richie Berrington (36) and Calum MacLeod (62) put on a 78-run partnership in persuit of 246 to stable the innings, before the former fell to Patel.
George Munsey came to the crease to join Calum MacLeod with 93 runs required, but could only add 16 thanks to an edge to the keeper attempting a leg-side flick.
A mix-up in the middle caused the downfall of MacLeod and with 58 runs required in nine overs, Safyaan Sharif and Josh Davey combined in the middle at ICC Academy in search of the final runs.
A resilient partnership from Scotland’s lower order batsmen saw each batter hit 26 runs to take Scotland to victory with four wickets and seven balls remaining.
#FollowScotland
