Stander firm for Scotland

3 July 2009

Jan Stander hit a half century for Scotland as they opened up a large lead over Canada

Jan Stander hit a solid half century as Scotland moved into a commanding position on the second day of their Intercontinental Cup opener against Canada in Aberdeen.

After labouring to 185 all out in their first innings yesterday, the Scots succeeded in skittling Canada for 142 - having begun day two on 108 for seven - before further extending their lead today.

The hosts reached 199 for nine in their second innings to open up an advantage of 242 runs over their opponents heading into the penultimate day.

After looking as though a three-figure score might be out of reach during a slow-burning first innings, Scotland again looked sluggish at the top of the order today.

The loss of Ewan Chalmers for 24 in the 33rd over reduced Scotland to 77 for six, but the entrance of number seven batsman Stander turned the match on its head as he went on to hit 64 runs to carry Scotland towards a respectable total.

After Majid Haq perished to leave the Scots on 99 for seven, Stander paired with Gordon Drummond (34) - who hit 52 in the first innings - for a 69-run eighth-wicket stand.

Rizwan Cheema was the pick of the Canadian bowling attack, finishing with figures of 3-39 after dismissing top-order batsmen Ryan Watson (4) and Richie Berrington (7), and claiming the scalp of Chalmers.