Scotland National Cricket Team kicked off the 2025 T20I Tri-Nation Series in style with a comprehensive 39-run win over the Netherlands National Cricket Team at Titwood, Glasgow. The hosts put up a well-rounded performance with both bat and ball, setting the tone early in the six-match tournament. The star of the show was Finlay McCreath, who played a vital knock of 40 off 28 balls and contributed significantly to Scotland’s defense with the ball. His all-round performance earned him the Player of the Match award.
Solid Start with the Bat
After losing the toss and being asked to bat first, Scotland got off to a flying start thanks to George Munsey’s aggressive 30 off just 17 deliveries. His quick scoring laid the foundation for a competitive total. Wicketkeeper-batter Matthew Cross continued the momentum with a composed 33 off 24 balls, keeping the scoreboard ticking during the middle overs.
But it was Finlay McCreath’s 40-run cameo that gave Scotland the late flourish they needed. His innings included some clean strikes and clever placement, helping Scotland reach 160/8 in their 20 overs.
Netherlands’ Bowling Highlights
Despite the loss, Netherlands had some positives to take from their bowling effort. Aryan Dutt was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 3 for 17 in his four overs and choking Scotland’s progress in the middle phase. Zach Lion-Cachet (2/26) and Kyle Klein (2/38) also chipped in with wickets, but couldn’t prevent the hosts from posting a challenging total.
Dutch Batting Falters Under Pressure
In reply, Netherlands never looked comfortable chasing 161. Opener Michael Levitt top-scored with 36 off 30 deliveries, showing intent early on, but lacked support from the other end. Teja Nidamanuru (16 off 16) and Paul van Meekeren (20* off 11) tried to resist, but wickets kept falling at regular intervals.
The Scottish bowling attack remained disciplined throughout. Safyaan Sharif (2/13) and Jack Jarvis (2/14) broke the back of the Dutch batting lineup, while Mark Watt maintained pressure with figures of 2/28 from his full quota.
Netherlands were eventually bowled out for 121 in 18.1 overs, falling short by 39 runs.
A Confident Start for Scotland
With this emphatic win, Scotland have taken an early lead in the Tri-Nation T20I series, which also features Ireland. The victory will boost their confidence as they look to build momentum in the remaining fixtures.
Match Summary:
Scotland: 160/8 in 20 overs (Finlay McCreath 40, Matthew Cross 33; Aryan Dutt 3/17)
Netherlands: 121 all out in 18.1 overs (Michael Levitt 36; Safyaan Sharif 2/13, Jack Jarvis 2/14)
Result: Scotland won by 39 runs
Player of the Match: Finlay McCreath (SCO)
