Scotland secured a narrow two-run victory over the USA in a thrilling Cricket World Cup League 2 encounter, a result that sees them move to the top of the table.
The match, affected by rain, saw Scotland post 321-6 before restricting the USA to 246-8.
Scotland’s Batting Display Sets the Stage
Scotland’s innings was reduced to 47 overs, but they made the most of it, reaching 321-6. Opener Finlay McCreath led the way with a score of 77.
Brandon McMullen (55) and Matthew Cross (58) also contributed half-centuries in a quick-scoring effort. Mark Watt and Michael Leask added cameos down the order, building on Scotland’s previous total of 243-8 against Nepal.
Mukkamalla’s Century in Vain as Rain Rules
Brad Currie struck early to dismiss Shayan Jahangir. Smit Patel then batted fluently, scoring 72 as the United States passed 100 in 16 overs.
Heavy rain interrupted the USA’s innings. When play resumed, their target was revised to 248 from 32 overs, with the score at 160-4 from 26.4 overs.
Saiteja Mukkamalla then launched an assault, reaching his century from 72 balls. His efforts took the game to the final over, but he was unable to see his team to victory.
Berrington’s Crucial Catch Seals the Win
With 16 runs needed from the final over, Mukkamalla skied a wide delivery from Brandon McMullen.
Scotland captain Richie Berrington then took a diving catch running backwards from extra cover.
USA managed nine runs from the remaining balls, leaving them needing six for a tie off the final ball. Mohammad Mohsin only managed four, handing Scotland the win.
Scotland now sit above USA in the standings, having played five matches more.
Reaction to a Close Contest
Berrington spoke after the match. “It was a pretty important moment, so I’m lucky it stuck in my hands,” he said of his catch to remove Mukkamalla.
“That was a fantastic knock and once again we’ve gone down to the wire. We made it tougher than we would have liked but really important that we held our nerve.”
He added, “It took us a while to get going again after the rain break. I’m just pleased we managed to close it out. We’re finding a way to get over the line.”
Scotland triumphed after another tight match affected by rain in Nepal.