Scotland eke out a close win over Namibia in T20 World Cup

Scotland held their nerve to eke out a five-wicket win over Namibia for the first time in T20Is to move to the top of Group B in the ongoing T20 World Cup.

The Scots were set a target of 156. The chase was tough before Richie Berrington sealed the match in European nation’s favour with a six in the second-last over.

Scotland were reduced to 73/4 after 11 overs, before Berrington and Michael Leask joined hands to steer them back on course.

Skipper Berrington hammered an unbeaten 47 off 35 balls, while Leask hit 35 off 17 balls.

Scotland completed the chase with nine balls to spare.

Namibia won the toss at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados, with captain Gerhard Erasmus opting to bat.

It was the skipper who made the biggest contribution as he helped his side reach a competitive 155/9, through 52 off 31 balls.

“There is a big rivalry between us. Unfortunately, we let it slip today. The score was probably par. We were not up to scratch with the ball and on the field. We will regroup from this loss. [Left-arm pacer] JJ Smit not bowling has meant the balance of the side has changed. The other guys have looked to showcase their talent,” said Erasmus after the match.

Right-handed batsman and off-spinner Michael Leask of Scotland earned the man of the match award for his 35 off 17 balls (4x6s) and 1/16.

“That (award) means a lot. We've repaid the faith of the people that have come to watch. Last time they had us three-down in the first over, so this feels special. Two more big games to go. My role is simple, hit the ball hard, find gaps, if it's in the slot, hit it out of the ground. It came off,” Leask signed off.

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