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New Zealand recorded their highest-ever T20I score to clinch a thumping 102-run victory against Scotland in the second Twenty20 of the two-match series. Riding on a record total of 254/5, Blackcaps sealed the series 2-0.
After electiing to bat first, Michael Bracewell, playing at no.5, played an instrumental role in the world record loaded with eight fours and three maximums.
Mark Chapman also impressed with a 44-ball 83 which was infused with seven sixes. The 28-year-old Chapman’s innings was all the more creditable as it was his first professional knock since mid-April.
Scottish pacer Gavin Main took 2/44 in four overs but couldn't save his sie from going down to the Kiwis.
Reduced to 37/4 at one point, Scotland held out to complete its 20 overs to finish on 152/9 in reply. Chris Greaves top-scored for the hosts with 37 runs off 29 deliveries. He was caught-and-bowled by Ish Sodhi (1/29).
Kiwi quick James Neesham took 2-9 in one over, and spinner Michael Rippon 2/37 in four overs.
New Zealand's previous best score in cricket's shortest format was 243/5 against West Indies in 2018. Afghanistan holds the all-time record with 278-3 against Ireland in 2019.
“It’s just the nature of international cricket," Chapman said after the match.
“It took a bit to get going, but once you get one out of the middle of the bat, things come back pretty quickly.
“We’ve been talking about taking the game on, and being really positive in the way we play. It came off today, and the boys are pretty happy," he added.
Meanwhile, New Zealand skipper Mitch Santner said, "To get that many runs was special. Credit to guys for being agrressive from ball one. Different guys have stepped up at different times. We have had guys coming in and going for it from ball one. Chapman is a quality player. Rippon did a pretty goof job today".
Scotland captain Richie Berrington rued the hapless loss as he said," Richie Berrington: Disappointing today. We knew it was a good batting surface. At this level, you can't miss opportunities. Credit to New Zealand. Few things we know we can work on. We didn't put Ne Zealand under pressure. We will take a stock of where we are. At times we did get it right. At this level, there is not much room for making errors. We need to reflect on these two games".
