Scots rue coin toss as Black Caps ease to victory

Vettori thankful for break

By Aiden Connor

Published:

HOWZAT: Dewald Nel is given out at Mannofield as New Zealand eased to an eight-wicket victory over Scotland.

DISAPPOINTING: Scotland's Dewald Nel holds his head in frustration.

YOU’RE OUT: John Blain is given leg before wicket.

SCOTLAND had no answer to the power and pace of one of the top international teams at Mannofield, collapsing to an eight wicket defeat against New Zealand.

There was, however, some consolation for the well beaten Scots, who were seeking their first win at the expense of a No.3 ODI team who had the benefit of winning the toss on a difficult seaming track.

Kiwi skipper Daniel Vettori conceded it might have been a more testing task for his side had his side batted first.

“It would have been interesting game had we been asked to bat first in drizzly conditions which made it hard for the Scots,” said Vettori who was clearly enjoying the North-east hospitality.

“We have been well looked after,” said the Black Caps skipper after bowling Scotland out for 101 before New Zealand knocked off the target for the loss of two wickets in the 15th over.

Ross Taylor was the chief tormentor of the home side with a splendid 61 not out, though the sheer accurate pace of the Kiwi attack had set up the win.

Scotland skipper Ryan Watson was understandably frustrated by the outcome and hugely disappointed.

Watson, who will rue his two duck contribution to the tournament, said: “The toss of the coin was vital, as batting first was always going to be hard, but no excuses, we were beaten by a side who put the ball in the right places, though some of us batted badly,”

Local boys Colin Smith and Gordon Goudie made telling efforts, as the Scotland wicketkeeper scored an impressive 59 against Ireland and looked set against New Zealand until he gloved a catch on 11, in addition to taking four catches in the first game.

Goudie impressed with two wickets against Ireland and looked to be heading for top scorer when he faced the formidable Kiwis before running out of partners on 17.

“Gordon came through this test with flying colours,” said an appreciative Watson, who was happy they had beaten associate members Ireland on Wednesday.

Vettori is convinced Scotland would learn from the experience.

“I have sympathy for the situation they found themselves in, but they will improve, as indeed will our young side,” he said.