Scotland’s McMullen, Berrington fire in response to Namibia’s massive total in T20 warm-up

BENGALURU: Scotland mounted a strong response in their steep chase against Namibia in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup warm-up match, riding on a blistering counterattack from Brandon McMullen and a composed knock from skipper Richie Berrington at the BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground 2 on Wednesday.

Chasing a daunting target of 227, Scotland reached 118 for 2 in 10 overs, keeping themselves firmly in the contest after an early setback. McMullen led the charge with an explosive innings, smashing 63 off just 23 deliveries, including a flurry of boundaries and towering sixes that swung momentum back Scotland’s way after the powerplay.

Earlier, Namibia piled on the runs after opting to bat first, posting an imposing 226 for 4 in their 20 overs. Openers Lourens Steenkamp and Jan Frylinck laid a devastating foundation, tearing into the Scottish bowling during the powerplay. Frylinck starred with a breathtaking 88 off 44 balls, while Steenkamp brought up a well-paced half-century as the pair dominated the opening exchanges.

Scotland fought back briefly in the middle overs, removing both openers in quick succession, but Namibia captain Gerhard Erasmus and JJ Smit ensured there was no slowdown. The duo finished strongly, with Ruben Trumpelmann adding late impetus as Namibia plundered 36 runs in the final three overs to push the total beyond 220.

In reply, Scotland lost Michael Jones early, but McMullen and Mark Watt steadied the innings before Watt departed for 33. Berrington then joined McMullen, and the pair continued to keep the required run rate in check with aggressive intent.

With momentum swinging and the asking rate still demanding, the match remains finely poised as Scotland look to script a statement chase ahead of the Super 12 stage, while Namibia hunt key breakthroughs to defend their massive total.