Vanuatu create List A history to beat Malaysia in World Cup qualifier

Bowled out for 65 in a Challenge League group game in Kuala Lumpur, Clint McKay's side appeared to be heading to a crushing defeat

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Vanuatu's hopes of playing in their first 50-over World Cup might already be over, but they have made cricketing history against Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur.

Playing in the first of three steps towards the next World Cup in India in 2023, the Pacific Islanders were 26 for 1 but collapsed to 65 all out in just 25.1 overs.

Pavandeep Singh and Nazril Rahman both took four wickets to put tournament hosts Malaysia seemingly on course for a routine win.

But Ahmed Faiz's side slipped to 32 for 8 before eventually being skittled for just 52. Aminuddin Ramly scored 25 from 35 balls but it wasn't enough as the south-east Asia country were beaten for the fourth time in the competition.

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The target of 66 is the lowest ever successfully defended in List A cricket, beating the 77 which Middlesex denied Northamptonshire of in 1972.

It was the first win in four qualifying games for Vanuatu, who are coached by former Australia bowler Clint McKay.

Both Malaysia and Vanuatu are competing in a six-team Challenge League, with the winner progressing to the World Cup play-offs in 2022.

But with just two wins between them so far, their hopes of taking their place in the showcase are bleak.

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