In the 23rd match of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 Qualifier, Scotland emerged victorious, crushing West Indies' hopes of qualifying for the World Cup 2023. Five years ago, the roles were reversed, with West Indies celebrating their qualification, but this time, it was Scotland's moment to shine.
With an impressive performance from all-rounder Brandon McMullen, who took 3 wickets and scored a must-needed half-century, Scotland secured a convincing 7-wicket win. This victory marks Scotland's maiden ODI win against the two-time World Cup champions.
The pressure was on for West Indies, knowing that a loss would knock them out of the running due to the Qualifier format. Scotland's captain, Richie Berrington, added to the challenge by choosing to bowl first in tough conditions, leading to early wickets for McMullen. Within the first six overs, the top three West Indies batsmen fell to McMullen's skillful bowling.
With the score at a troubling 60 for 5, Jason Holder and Nicholas Pooran tried to stabilize the innings, but the pressure proved too much. Scotland's Mark Watt tempted Pooran into a slog-sweep that ended in a catch at the boundary. A 77-run partnership between Holder and Romario Shepherd gave some hope to West Indies, but it was short-lived as Scotland's Chris Greaves dismissed Holder and eventually led to West Indies being all out for 181.
In response, Scotland faced an early setback when Christopher McBride was dismissed in the first over. However, McMullen and Matthew Cross took charge of the chase with a steady and calculated approach. Their partnership of 125 runs helped Scotland take control of the game. McMullen's six down the ground indicated his confidence in the chase.
Despite McMullen's departure, Cross continued to guide the chase, securing victory in the 44th over. West Indies' disappointing campaign in the World Cup Qualifier ends with defeats to Zimbabwe, Netherlands, and now Scotland. This defeat marks the first time in the ODI World Cup's history that West Indies will not be participating, making it the 13th edition without the 2-time champions.