Papua New Guinea secure World Cup Qualifier place

Andrew Nixon



After Scotland beat Papua New Guinea in the first match on Friday, followed by the Netherlands beating Kenya later in the day, the path to the World Cup Qualifier for the Scotland and PNG players became clear - a win would secure their place, whilst defeat would mean qualification would have to wait for the final round of matches.



Scotland were again batting first after Kyle Coetzer won the toss, and again had a big score from one batsman form the backbone of their innings. Matthew Cross made 91 - his highest ODI total - but the next highest score was 22 from both Coetzer and George Munsey.



The hosts bowled Scotland out for 203, four balls prior to the end of their quota of fifty overs. Norman Vanua, John Reva and Mahuru Dai all took two wickets.



Papua New Guinea started their reply with a 44 run opening partnership between Vani Morea and Tony Ura. Both were removed in quick succession, with captain Asad Vala then taking control of the run chase with a knock of 49 before he was the fifth man out in the 34th over.



With 74 still required in 16 overs with five wickets in hand, it was unlikely to be plain sailing, but Mahuru Dai and Dogodo Bau held it together, Dai leading the way with an unbeaten 63 from 54 balls. The pair put on an unbroken 74 to complete a five wicket win and secure PNG their World Cup Qualifier place.



Papua New Guinea will play Hong Kong in the final round of matches, with - subject to ICC confirmation - a place in the new 13 team ODI league still up for grabs. Scotland will take on Kenya in that final round, and they too still have a chance at topping the table.



The current round of WCLC matches will have concluded by this time next week. Hong Kong play host to Nepal for the final two matches of the round on Friday and Sunday.