Scotland drew first blood in the Celtic Cup series with a convincing six-wicket victory over Ireland Under-17s in the opening game of the annual series.

Ireland were bowled out for 133 after Arnav Saraswat produced a superb spell of five for 28.

The Irish innings was in immediate trouble as Ted Hasler and Gethin Kelleher fell with the total on 12. Sidharth Biju attempted to steady matters with 17, but Saraswat also removed him and Marko Bates to leave Ireland reeling at 26 for four.

Peter Le Roux dug in for 24 from 58 balls, while Aadil Naizam provided the main resistance with a patient 37 from 73 deliveries. However, wickets continued to fall regularly around them.

Nathan Umeed and Teddy Golding claimed two wickets apiece, while Aakash Bala took one as Ireland failed to bat through their full allocation.

Scotland made a confident start to the chase through Munro Cubbon and Simon Umeed, who added 63 for the opening wicket.

Cubbon struck 36 from 43 balls, including two fours and a six, while Umeed contributed 24. Coby Campbell then accelerated with a lively 21 from just 14 deliveries as Scotland maintained firm control.

Ireland briefly slowed the chase when Ben Walsh removed Cubbon and Umeed, while Mark Donnelly dismissed Campbell and James Stronach.

However, Oliver Pillinger ensured there would be no late drama. He finished unbeaten on 32 from 25 balls, hitting four fours and a six, with Oli Stones adding seven not out.

Scotland raced home in only 22.4 overs, completing an emphatic opening victory and taking the early advantage in the series.