There are some matches on the cricket field which may not get you a ticket to participate in a big tournament, but they definitely make a place in the hearts. This is the case in T20 World Cup qualifier that was played between Jersey and Scotland. Jersey upset everybody after winning by one wicket of the last ball, they failed to qualify in the World Cup with net run rate. Let us see the 10 key facts of this game:
Thrill continued till the last ball: one run needed, one wicket left
Jersey did not go down the road to victory easily. During the final over when Jake Dunford needed only one run and there were only 9 wickets left, he plucked the needed run at the last ball and made the team win in history. This scene was no less than a thriller film for cricket lovers.
Jersey missed out on making it to the T20 World Cup for the first time
Although Jersey surprised everyone by defeating a big team like Scotland, unfortunately its place in the World Cup could not be confirmed. In the last match, Netherlands registered a big win against Italy, due to which Jersey’s net run rate fell and it came in third place.
Shock of Scotland not reaching the World Cup for the fifth consecutive time
Scotland’s team was the highest ranked in this tournament and it was expected to qualify easily. But the defeat against Jersey blocked its path and this time it missed out on playing in the T20 World Cup for the fifth consecutive time.
Emotional reaction of Jersey captain Charles Perchard
Jersey captain Charles Perchard claimed after the game: “It may prove to be a life-changing event to us. We worked hard for years, faced many disappointments, and now have tasted this victory.” His words clearly reflect the team’s spirit and struggle.
Nick Greenwood’s brilliant batting: Important innings of 49 runs
Nick Greenwood played an important innings of 49 runs for Jersey. He placed the team in an advantageous position when running after the target of 133 runs provided by Scotland. In spite of the continuous fall of wickets at the end, this innings of Greenwood built the basis of winning.
Dramatic ending of the final over: two run-outs and a brilliant catch
Jersey players came under pressure in the last overs. There were two run-outs, and when Ben Ward raised hopes by hitting a huge six, Brandon McMullan again added excitement to the match by taking a brilliant catch on the next ball. This proves that anything can happen in cricket till the last ball.
Perchard and Dunford pair: Struggle for five runs in the last four balls
During the match they passed the final 4 balls and required the 6th and final delivery of their innings, when the number 11 and 12 batsmen of Jersey team,heading the sides in their order, were Charles Perchard (captain) and Jake Dunford. Pressure does not break them as both of them manage to maintain the pressure and win the match. Their composure and courage are being appreciated everywhere.
Italy qualified for the World Cup for the first time
Another interesting aspect of this match was that Italy made it to the T20 World Cup for the first time. The Netherlands’ big win pushed Italy to second place. Italy will play for the first time in the T20 World Cup to be held in India and Sri Lanka next year.
Scotland captain Richie Bearington admitted the reason for the defeat
After the match, Scotland captain Richie Bearington admitted that his team had put a lot of pressure on themselves in the beginning. He said, “Jersey played brilliantly throughout the tournament and we needed our best game. Unfortunately we missed a bit.”
Why is this victory important for Jersey cricket?
Although Jersey has failed to qualify to the world cup, this win has positioned Jersey solidly on the international cricket map of the world. This has come as an eye opener to all the players of a small country that amidst hard work, dedication and team spirit, even the largest teams can be beaten. In 2 years the Jersey cricket team will not be brushed off.
Conclusion:
This match between Jersey and Scotland was much more than just victory and defeat. It is a story of passion, struggle and faith that makes the game truly alive. When teams from small countries surprise big teams, they settle in the hearts of cricket lovers forever. If you liked this article, then do let us know by commenting, and stay connected to our blog for such interesting news from the world of sports.
October 9, 2025