West Advance in Scottish Cup Opener

Allied Vehicles West of Scotland XI began their season in winning fashion with a five-wicket victory away to Ayr, booking their place in the second round of the Scottish Cup.

After winning the toss at Cambusdoon, West chose to bowl first and made immediate use of the early-season conditions. New overseas signing Mekyle Pillay impressed on debut, claiming 3 for 26 and removing both Ayr openers before adding the important wicket of Neil Flack, well caught by Tony Hulatt at deep square leg.

Ayr struggled to build partnerships throughout the innings, with only Ollie Jones offering significant resistance with 42. Support came from West’s attack as Tony Hulatt, Oscar Fry and James Fennah each picked up two wickets, helping dismiss the home side for 94.

West made a confident start to the reply, moving to 21 before skipper Sam Page departed for 18. Ayr fought back well to reduce the visitors to 41 for 4, but Shubhang Sharma (19) and Moneeb Iqbal steadied the innings.

Iqbal guided West home with a composed unbeaten 32 from 45 deliveries as the visitors sealed victory by five wickets and progressed to the second round.

Attention now turns to league action next Saturday, when the 1st XI welcome GHK to Hamilton Crescent.