Chasing a target of 287 for victory in Group B, Scotland found themselves at 117 for five when Leask walked to the crease. The pressure was on, but he held his nerve and showcased tremendous resilience, scoring an unbeaten 91.
With the match coming down to the final ball in Bulawayo, Leask’s heroic innings propelled the Scots to a thrilling one-wicket victory, leaving Ireland with their second consecutive defeat.
Earlier in the day, Ireland captain Andy Balbirnie’s side had set a challenging total of 286 for eight, largely thanks to Curtis Campher’s maiden one-day international century.
Campher, who was omitted from the opening defeat by Oman, crafted a magnificent innings, smashing 120 runs from 108 deliveries. His knock featured four sixes and nine fours before he fell to the penultimate delivery of the innings.
Ireland encountered trouble from the start as Brandon McMullen wreaked havoc, dismissing opener Paul Stirling without scoring on just his second ball. McMullen continued his rampage, swiftly claiming the wickets of skipper Balbirnie and the dangerous Harry Tector, leaving Ireland in a precarious position.
Subsequent dismissals of Lorcan Tucker and opener Andy McBrine further deepened Ireland’s struggle. However, Campher’s partnership with George Dockrell, who contributed 69 runs, helped set a competitive target.
Scotland’s pursuit suffered an early setback when Matthew Cross was trapped leg-before-wicket by Mark Adair for a mere four runs. Adair struck again in the 11th over, removing McMullen for 10, and reducing Scotland to 56 for two.
Opener Chris McBride fought valiantly, reaching his first one-day international half-century from 53 deliveries. Unfortunately, he fell shortly after, deceived by a delivery from Campher that breached his defenses.
Wickets continued to tumble for Scotland at regular intervals, with George Munsey, Richie Berrington, Tomas Mackintosh, and Chris Greaves all getting starts but failing to capitalize.
Amidst the mounting pressure, Leask emerged as the undeterred force for Scotland. With 44 runs required from the final four overs, Leask took charge, delivering an unyielding 61-ball innings. During his breathtaking knock, he struck four sixes and nine fours, demonstrating his immense power-hitting capabilities.
In a fitting climax to an enthralling contest, Leask managed to guide the ball through fine leg off the last delivery, scoring the required two runs and igniting euphoric celebrations among the Scottish camp.
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Scotland’s thrilling victory over Ireland serves as a testament to the never-say-die spirit of Leask and his team. Meanwhile, Ireland will need to regroup swiftly to revive their campaign in the ICC World Cup qualifier, as their hopes have taken a significant blow following consecutive defeats.
The stage is set for further captivating encounters as the qualifying tournament unfolds, promising more exhilarating moments in the quest for a spot in the upcoming World Cup.