Centuries from Grant Elliott (109) and BJ Watling (119*) have led New Zealand A to a comprehensive 199 run victory over Scotland in their first match at Ayr in Scotland.
The Kiwi side posted an imposing total of 347-6 from their 50 overs, with BJ Watling bringing up his ton off just 64 balls. In response, Scotland were unable to maintain their hefty required run-rate, eventually dismissed for 148 off 32.3 overs.
Having won the toss, Scotland opted to bowl first and restricted New Zealand to 48-2 after ten overs. However, Grant Elliott came in and quickly swung the momentum in favour of the visitors, forming a solid partnership with Watling. Together, the pair put on 95 for the sixth wicket, before Elliott’s innings finally came to a close after 104 balls.
The skipper went on to finish the innings with a bang, with Watling slamming 28 runs off the 48th over to bring up his century, his last 50 runs coming from just 13 balls.
Scotland’s pursuit never really threatened to challenge New Zealand’s total, with Matt Henry (4-26) crippling them early on with quick wickets. Kuggelejin (3-47) was also dangerous with ball in hand and between he and Henry, the match was all but over in the 21st over after reducing Scotland to 92-7. The hosts clung on for another 11 overs before Ish Sodhi took the final wicket to end proceedings.
Watling said it was pleasing that New Zealand A had managed to keep momentum after their recent Tri-series victory.
“We were happy with the total we put on in the first innings and that really set up the game for us. When you score two centuries in a One Day match you give yourself a pretty good chance of being on the right side of the result,” Watling said.
“The bowlers also backed up beautifully and we were alert in the field, highlighted by a special catch from Ish (Sodhi) on the boundary, so all in all it’s a pretty pleasing performance.”
New Zealand A face Scotland in the second One Dayer on Sunday night.
