Windies singing in the rain as they clinch World Cup spot

West Indies have qualified for the 2019 Cricket World Cup after rain helped them to victory over Scotland in Harare.

Published : Mar 21, 2018 21:43 IST

West Indies secured qualification for the 2019 Cricket World Cup thanks to a five-run win over Scotland on the Duckworth-Lewis method.

After bowling out their opponents for 198, Scotland had reached 128-5 after 35.2 overs of their run chase when rain arrived to ruin a tense finish in Harare.

They had slipped to 67-4 at one stage before a resolute fifth-wicket stand of 38 put the winner-takes-all showdown back in the balance.

However, the departure of Richie Berrington, who was trapped lbw by spinner Ashley Nurse (2-35), for 33 turned out to be crucial, tipping the balance in West Indies' favour.

George Munsey was left unbeaten on 32 as Scotland were sunk by a heavy storm, the narrow defeat confirming they can no longer reach next year's tournament in England.

West Indies, in contrast, are now certain of progressing through from the Super Six stage at the qualifying event.

Opener Evin Lewis made a top score of 66 and Marlon Samuels weighed in with a patient 51 from 98 deliveries to post a competitive total, despite them losing their last eight wickets for 75 runs.

Hosts Zimbabwe can secure a place in Sunday's final - and with it the last remaining World Cup berth - with victory over the United Arab Emirates on Thursday.

Sign in to unlock all user benefits
  • Get notified on top games and events
  • Save stories to read later
  • Access to comment on every story
  • Sign up / manage to our newsletters with a single click
  • Get notified by email for early bird access to discounts & offers to our products
Sign in

Comments

Comments have to be in English, and in full sentences. They cannot be abusive or personal. Please abide to our community guidelines for posting your comment