COLOMBO: Scotland produced a dominant batting display to pile up a formidable 207 for 4 in their second ICC Men’s T20 World Cup match against debutants Italy at Eden Gardens on Monday, driven by outstanding performances from George Munsey and Brandon McMullen.
Opting to bat first, Scotland made an assured start as their openers set the tempo early and kept the pressure firmly on the Italian attack. Munsey and Michael Jones combined effectively, guiding the innings past 50 inside seven overs and laying a strong platform.
Munsey was the standout, registering his 14th T20I half-century and looking in complete control throughout his innings. Jones provided solid support, ensuring Scotland maintained momentum against an inexperienced bowling unit.
The opening stand crossed 100 before Munsey’s fluent knock ended on 84 from 54 deliveries, which included 13 fours and two sixes, after Grant Stewart broke the 126-run partnership.
Late wickets
Scotland suffered another setback shortly afterwards as Jones was dismissed for 37 off 30 balls, with a four and two sixes, leaving the score at 136 for 2 in the 15th over.
McMullen and Richie Berrington then accelerated the scoring, comfortably taking Scotland beyond 150. Their 48-run stand ended when Ali Hasan claimed his maiden T20I wicket, removing Berrington for 15 off 11 balls.
Late wickets followed as Tom Bruce departed cheaply, but McMullen remained unbeaten on a blistering 41 off 18 balls, striking four sixes. Michael Leask added the finishing touches with a rapid 22 off five balls, featuring two fours and two sixes.
