SCO vs IRE 2018, 4th ODI: Safyaan Sharif Defends 7 Runs in Final Over, Match Ends in Dramatic Tie

The 4^th match between Scotland and Ireland finished in a thrilling tie, as Safyaan Sharif managed to defend seven runs in the final over of the game.

Paul Stirling looked in command of proceedings and looked like taking the match away from the Scots. However, Sharif bowled a superb final over which prevented Ireland from crossing the line. The victory also means Scotland has to win at least one of their last two matches to qualify for the finals against the Netherlands.

It was Scotland who won the toss and opted to bat. The opening duo of George Munsey and Kyle Coetzer got Scots off to a rollicking start with a 93-run partnership in just eight overs. It was some sensational hitting by the duo which got them off to a flier. Munsey scored 46 off 25 deliveries which included five fours and a couple of sixes.

Despite a brilliant start, the Irish bowlers made a brilliant comeback and restricted them to 185 in their allotted 20 overs. Callum MacLeod also scored a fluent 49, but it didn’t come in quick time. His 46 came in 39 deliveries which included five fours. Eventually, Scotland finished on a competitive score of 185. Ireland needed to get off to a steady start to harbour hopes of chasing the target down.

Paul Stirling began brilliantly and struck some sensational shots, to begin with. However, Scotland lost two wickets in quick time. However, Stirling on the other end continued his good run and kept Ireland in the match. Simi Singh shared a 68-run partnership with Stirling which got Ireland back on track.

Gary Wilson and Kevin O’ Brien also chipped in with useful knocks. However, the situation got tough for the Irish after the dismissal of Stirling’s wicket. Seven runs were required of the final over, and Safyaan Sharif managed to defend it quite brilliantly. He conceded just six in the over to help Scotland finish the match on a tie.

Brief Scores

Scotland 185/4 in 20 overs (Kyle Coetzer 54, Simi Singh 1/34)

Ireland 185/6 in 20 overs (Paul Stirling 81, Safyaan Sharif 2/31)

Match tied