S’pore cricketers edge out Oman to stay on course for final

SINGAPORE narrowly beat Oman by two wickets at Kallang yesterday, which was enough to keep them in the race for a top-two finish in the International Cricket Council's World Cricket League Division Four, being played in the Republic.

Only the top two teams in the six-nation tournament are promoted to Division Three, and the home side face stiff competition from Denmark, who lead the table after four rounds with six points and a net run rate (NRR) of +1.111, and Malaysia, who also have six points and NRR of -0.032. Singapore lie second with six points and NRR of +0.119.

Tomorrow's final round of matches is crucial, and Singapore will have to beat bottom team Jersey (2 points) by a big margin to ensure their promotion.

Denmark take on Italy (2pts), while Malaysia play Oman (2pts).

Singapore made their task more difficult with a shaky batting display against Oman yesterday.

After restricting the Gulf side to 186-8 in 50 overs, with off-spinner Dharmichand Mulewa taking 4-21, they collapsed after a bright opening partnership of 66.

The middle- and lower-middle order caved in under pressure and it took a brilliant 81 not out from opener Chaminda Ruwan for the home side to record a vital win.

santosh@sph.com.sg

Brief scores: Oman 186-8 in 50 overs (Amir Ali 50 n.o.; Dharmichand Mulewa 4-21). Singapore 187-8 in 45.4 overs (Chaminda Ruwan 81 n.o; Ajay Lalcheta 5-20).

This article was first published on June 26, 2014.
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