04/06/2026
The Strathmore Cricket Club cricketer Chris Milne says being part of the Scottish men’s over-50s side that defeated India recently was an “amazing experience”.
Having been beaten by the Indians in the first meeting between the two sides at Leicester Electricity Sports Cricket Club’s ground on May 24, Scotland Seniors Cricket knew they had to dig deep and try to find another gear for game two down south on May 25.
In game two, they fell to 81-5 in pursuit of a victory target of 273 at Oakham Cricket Club in Rutland, but then Steve Matthew transformed the match in extraordinary fashion.
An hour and a half later, he had blasted 137 from number seven in the batting order - striking many fours and sixes along the way - and had taken Scotland to within 10 runs of victory. The innings is now the equal fifth-highest score in over-50s international history.
Patrick Druce (12 not out) and last man Milne (seven not out) then held their nerve to help Scotland get up to 276-9 and secure a famous one wicket win.
“Beating India was an amazing experience,” Milne, 53, said.
We were obviously underdogs heading into game two, but we had gained belief from our performance during the first game the day before.
“To get over the line to complete the win in the second game was exhilarating and satisfying, almost like a dream come true because India are such a famous cricketing nation.
“To be selected to represent your country in any sport at any level or age group is a great honour and I feel so privileged to have had the opportunity to play for the Scotland over-50s and am hungry for more.
“I am still a playing member at Strathmore and have been involved with Forty Club Scotland for four years and have been involved with Scotland Seniors Cricket since its inception.
“There are few more games lined up for the Scotland over-50s throughout the rest of summer, culminating in two matches against New Zealand in July.
“The camaraderie is brilliant within the over-50s squad with everyone being welcoming and inclusive and this played a big part in recovering from the loss in game one against India to the game two win.”
* A version of this article first appeared in The Courier UK on Wednesday *