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European Championships, Division 1, Dublin

Italy upset Netherlands as Sheikh stars for Scotland

Cricinfo staff

July 25, 2008

The European Championship Division 1 began at three venues around Dublin. Here is a round-up of the action from the opening day

Gary Wilson on his way to a 65-ball 47 for Ireland © Cricket Europe/ICC

Italy registered a notable scalp as they beat Netherlands by eight runs at North County. Joe Scuderi, the former Lancashire allrounder, hit an unbeaten 84 to steer Italy to 181, which proved too much for their higher-ranked opponents. Tim de Groot hit 51, but he lacked support and the lower order couldn't quite see the chase home as Netherlands were bowled out with more than six overs remaining.

Qasim Sheikh hit an unbeaten 80 to guide Scotland to a comfortable six-wicket victory over Denmark at Malahide. Scotland's target was adjusted under the D/L method as rain interrupted the chase after 28 overs, but they were well on course at 151 for 3. Ryan Watson (34) provided good support in a second-wicket stand of 70 and Neil McCallum helped complete the victory with a run-a-ball 22. Denmark wasted a solid position after Carsten Pedersen (72) and Soren Vestergaard (50) added 99 for the third wicket. Three run-outs didn't help their cause, while Scotland's death bowling also held firm.

Ireland had few problems completing an eight-wicket win against Norway as Gary Kidd impressed with four wickets at The Vineyard. Norway made a promising start, as the first wicket put on 35, but it was a false dawn. Kevin O'Brien made the breakthrough and wickets then fell steadily. Kidd nipped out two in the middle order before removing two tailenders. Ireland raced to their target in 22.5 overs with Gary Wilson, on the books at Surrey, striking 47 off 65 balls and Andre Botha making a quickfire 25 off 18 deliveries.