Jersey go through

Afghanistan and Jersey qualified for the ICC World Cricket League Division 4, the next stage of qualification for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011, when they convincingly won their ICC World Cricket League Division 5 semi-finals in Jersey.

Afghanistan successfully defended a small total of 142 runs to defeat Nepal by 37 runs, while Jersey outsmarted pre-tournament favourites USA by 84 runs.

A brilliant 122-run opening stand between Peter Gough and Steve Carlyon and a five-wicket haul by captain Mathew Hague was the cornerstone of Jersey’s victory.

Man of the match Hague was the wrecker-in-chief of the USA’s innings and finished with figures of 9.2-1-38-5, but he was modest in assessing his own contribution, preferring to concentrate on his team’s achievement.

“It feels absolutely fantastic,” he said. “I am so proud of everybody. Posting 220 on the board while batting first when there was a fair bit in the wicket, was a fantastic effort.

“Peter Gough and Steve Carlyon got us off to a great start and the bowling performance was excellent.”

Afghanistan and Jersey not only progressed through to the final but will also join Hong Kong, Fiji, Tanzania and Italy in the six-team ICC WCL Division 4 set for the Tanzanian capital of Dar Es Salaam from October 4-11.