Wright and Cush steered the USA past Scotland by six wickets and in another Group A fixture, Afghanistan used a tense 13-run victory to upset Ireland as the battle began to qualify for the ICC 2010 World T20 tournament starting in the Caribbean late April.
At Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi, Scotland scored 120 for seven off their 20 overs with Gavin Hamilton getting a top score of 41. Guyana-born pacer Kevin Darlington claimed two for 19 off his four overs to lead the bowling for the USA, who then responded with 121 for four off 19.1 overs.
Wright, with 62 off 57 balls, and Cush (41) posted a brisk 97-run second-wicket partnership that set up the victory with five balls to spare.
“It was a collective effort by us today and a great achievement,” said man of the match Wright.
“The bowlers made it much easier for us to go out and get the runs,” Wright added. Wright stroked eight boundaries in his half-century innings and Cush blasted three fours and a six in a 39-ball knock. Ireland, coached by former West Indies batsman Phil Simmons, fell short in their run chase at Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Batting first, Afghanistan scored 139 for eight off 20 overs with Mohammad Nabi (43 not out) and Noor Ali (42) scoring well against Trent Johnston (2-18) and Andre Botha (2-25).
Ireland replied with 126 all out off 19.2 overs.
William Porterfield top-scored with 35 and Paul Stirling got 21 while Karim Sadiq (3-21), Hamid Hassan (2-19), Mohammad Nabi (2-25) recorded match-winning bowling performances for Afghanistan.
Afghanistan’s coach Kabir Khan was delighted with his side’s performance.
“It is certainly a jump start for my side as Ireland is the best side in the tournament. The victory has given us a tremendous boost and confidence,” Khan said.
Ireland’s captain Porterfield was disappointed with the loss but praised the winners’ effort.
“There is no doubt that we didn’t play well but let’s not forget that Afghanistan also played well,” he said.
In Group B matches, United Arab Emirates (UAE) beat Kenya by 15 runs and the Netherlands defeated Canada by six wickets.
