Meek Scotland collapse

Steve Harmison menaced the Scots before rain came

Scotland Saltires’ batsmen produced yet another horror show at home today to end their hopes of reaching the Friends Provident Trophy knock-out stages.

In the wake of their stunning triumph over Lancashire Lightning at Old Trafford, they had gone into battle against holders Durham Dynamos brimming with confidence.

And after limiting the county to 181 for nine, they were even more upbeat about their prospects at the Citylets Grange.

But the Saltires crashed to earth, reeling at 52 for five when the umpires cut short the contest after 17.1 overs for bad light. It left Scotland 46 runs short of the amended target.

The writing was on the wall when overseas star Ed Cowan fell for five, and there was no way back after skipper Ryan Watson and Colin Smith were both lbw in quick succession.

Watson’s departure came at the end of a bizarre over, with Neil Killeen going off injured having sent down one delivery.

Ben Harmison took over and was clubbed for two boundaries by Watson - only for the stand-in bowler to snatch revenge with the last ball.

From then on it was a steady procession back to the pavilion with most of the wickets tumbling in tame fashion.

Earlier, the host attack kept the Dynamos in check, with none of their batsmen able to pass the 30-mark.

John Blain was again impressive as he removed Kyle Coetzer, Ben Harmison and Gary Park to take 3-31.

Dewald Nel accounted for Phil Mustard and Steve Harmison, while Glenn Rogers bagged the scalps of Neil McKenzie and Gordon Muchall.