The first competitive meeting between England and Scotland at Under-19 Level in almost 25 years took place today in Potchefstroom with England securing a seven wicket win as they look for a first title since 1998.

England captain Ben McKinney won the toss and chose to bowl first at Senwes Park. Jamie Dunk and Adi Hedge – mostly the former – put on 28 for the first wicket before Farhan Ahmed – brother of England senior international Rehan – removed Hedge and Bahadar Esakhiel in the tenth over.

Dunk and Scotland captain Owen Gould added 40 for the fourth wicket before Dunk was caught at deep square leg playing a sweep. Gould reached 48 before he was the fifth man out, unluckily bowled off his pads by Luc Benkenstein, son of former South African international Dale.

Gould’s dismissal ended Scotland’s hopes of a decent total and they were eventually bowled out for 174 with one player absent. Ahmed and Benkenstein both took three wickets for England.

Jaydn Denly – nephew of Joe – and Ben McKinney opened the batting in England’s reply, giving their team a great start with a 106 run opening partnership before Denly was caught at backward point for 40.

McKinney reached 88 from 68 balls before he was the third man out, caught at long on. By that time, England needed just another 13 runs which they did in only two further overs, completing a seven wicket win with 23.4 overs to spare.

Scotland are next in action on Wednesday when they take on the West Indies, whilst England next play on Tuesday against hosts South Africa.