Israel too strong for Italy

The Israel U17 team produced a much improved performance to beat Italy by 100 runs at the European Championships being played in Bologna.

Raz Ben Zaken (12) and Shai Hayun (15) gave Israel a solid start before Gal Matz and Michael Muchie took over, adding 101 for the 3rd wicket. Matz was first to fall, shortly after having gone to his half century. His 54 included some delightful drives through the off side. Muchie played equally well, although predominantly through the on side. He was eventually out for 29, trying to force the pace as the allocated overs drew to a close. Israel eventually finished on 172 for 8.

Yaniv Razpurker was once again fiery with the new ball, bowling with pace, aggression and accuracy to pick up two wickets, both clean bowled, in his opening spell. Adiel Changawker and Artur Arutinyan claimed one wicket each, as Italy were reduced to 45 for 4. Left arm spinner Solomon Varsulkar then entered the attack, bowling a sensational first over which included two wides but more importantly 3 wickets. He finished with 5 for 17, as Italy crumbled to 72 all out.

Israel play Germany on Wednesday, and Gibraltar on Thursday.