New Zealand hold nerves to beat a battling Scotland by 16 runs for their second win of the Super 12s in Dubai.
After putting 172/5 in 20 overs, the Kiwis restricted Scotland to 156/5 as their bowlers’ experience triumphed an inspirational Scottish performance.
Martin Guptill’s excellent 92 proved key for the Kiwis with the bat, and Trent Boult and Ish Sodhi picked two wickets each to dent Scotland’s fightback in the game. Earlier, Scotland had won the toss and opted to bowl against New Zealand in Dubai.
It was a brilliant effort from Scotland to bring the game close – particularly from Michael Leask, who remained unbeaten on 42 off just 20 deliveries as Scotland end on 155/5 in 20 overs. New Zealand register their second victory of the Super 12.
Sodhi did take two important wickets in the game, but conceded 42 runs off his four overs. Michael Leask ends his final over with three successive boundaries – a six and two fours.
Scotland need 39 runs to win from 12 balls. Safe to say, only formalities remain.
Berrington is the latest to perish as he attempts to slap a length ball from Sodhi towards midwicket. The batter finds a top-edge and is caught easily by wicketkeeper Devon Conway, who sprints towards short third man.
Macleod’s misery ends as he is dismissed on 12 off 15 deliveries.—Agencies
