Dream over for Manx cricketers in Belgium

After dominating the group stage of the ICC European Division 2 the Isle of Man cricket team have suffered defeat in the semi-final.

The Manx made a disastrous start against Austria as brilliant bowling by Muhammad Akhtar reduced the Island to a 10 for 7 after only six overs.

Then Chris Hawke and skipper Ricky Kniveton staged a brave recovery and had a stand of 75. Kniveton went lbw to Subhash for 20, but Hawke battled on. The side were eventually dismissed for 94 with the St John’s player last out for a brave 58.

In reply the Austrian openers raced away before Gareth Roome trapped Aman Deep for 12. Kasthuriarachchige continued the charge with some big hitting, but Chris Hawke caught and bowled him for 43. That made the score 81 for 3, but there was no way back for the Island. Austria reached their target for the loss of four wickets and go through to tomorrow’s final.

The Isle of Man are now in the play-off for third place.