Ireland and Scotland play to a thrilling T20I tie

Safyaan Sharif defended seven runs in the final over as Scotland and Ireland played to a thrilling tie in their T20 tri-series clash in Deventer on Sunday.

Chasing target of 185, Ireland were favourites heading into the final over of the game as they needed seven runs to win but the seamer Sharif held his nerve to take a wicket and only concede six runs.

The Irish were on top for most of the run-chase thanks to a 41-ball 81 from opener Paul Stirling while there solid contributions down the order by Simi Singh (26), Gary Wilson (20) and Kevin O’Brien (28).

O’Brien though lost his wicket to a stunning catch on the long-on boundary by Dylan Budge off the first ball of the last over to change the complexion of the game.

Stuart Thompson (7 not out) and Stuart Poynter (2 not out) could only muster six runs from the remaining five balls as Ireland came within a whisker of their target, ending on 185/6 after 20 overs.

Earlier, captain Kyle Coetzer top-scored with 54 as Scotland made their way to a total of 185/4 in their allotted overs.

George Munsey and Calum MacLeod both contributed 46 in a good batting display by the Scots.

Scotland now take on tournament hosts Netherlands on Tuesday and Wednesday.