Leask, Munsey star as Scotland thrash debutant Italy, turn focus to England clash

A costly drop proved decisive for Italy as George Munsey, put down by Anthony Mosca off the final ball of the powerplay, made them pay handsomely with a well-paced 84 off 54 balls.

Munsey and opening partner Michael Jones laid a solid foundation with a commanding 126-run opening stand, with Jones contributing 37.

Although both openers were dismissed within the space of an over, Scotland finished strongly thanks to a late onslaught led by Brandon McMullen, who remained unbeaten on 41 off just 18 balls, and Michael Leask, whose back-to-back sixes off the final two deliveries propelled Scotland to a formidable 207/4 in 20 overs.

Leask then struck early with the ball, dismissing Justin Mosca on the very first delivery of Italy’s chase. Scotland tightened the screws further by picking up two more wickets inside the powerplay.

Italy briefly fought back through brothers Ben Manenti (52) and Harry Manenti (37), who launched a counter-attack. However, their dismissals in quick succession triggered a collapse as Italy were bowled out for 134 in 16.4 overs.

Leask, who followed up his late batting cameo with figures of 4/17, was named Player of the Match. 

Scotland Eye England Clash

The convincing win sets Scotland up for a high-voltage clash against neighbours England on February 14.

Reflecting on the upcoming encounter, Scotland captain Richie Berrington said England would be tough opponents but backed his side to compete.

“Obviously, it’s going to be a tough game against a world-class team, but we also have world-class players in our line-up,” Berrington said. “If we nail our strengths on the day, we’ll give ourselves a good chance.”

Italy Captain Injured

Italy endured further misery after skipper Wayne Madsen suffered a shoulder injury early in the match.

The 42-year-old injured his left shoulder in the fourth over while attempting to stop a ball racing towards the boundary and was seen in visible pain after landing awkwardly.

The team physio attended to Madsen, but he was forced to leave the field amid concerns of a possible shoulder dislocation.