Nagpur,8 March। Afghanistan defeated Scotland by 14 runs in the second match of the opening day of the World T20 against Scotland at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium here on Tuesday.
Chasing a considerable target of 171 runs, Scotland only managed 156/5.
Scotland started strongly posting an 84-run first wicket stand between George Munsey (41) and Kyle Coetzer (40). But both the openers departed in the space of three balls that scuttled their ambitions.
Middle order batsman Matt Machan (36) tried to keep Scotland in the hunt but without any support from the other end, his effort went in vain.
Rashid Khan (2/28) was Afghanistan's best bowler.
Earlier, a fine half century from Mohammad Shahzad (61) guided Afghanistan to a competitive 170/5.
Shahzad gave his side a perfect start after they won the toss, smashing five fours and three sixes in an entertaining innings in their Group B match. He finished with 61 from 39 balls, a crucial contribution in setting Scotland and imposing target of 171.
Captain Asghar Stanikzai offered good support with 55 not out from 50 balls. But he was contained in the late overs by some tight bowling from Alasdair Evans (1-24).
Brief scores: Afghanistan 170/5 (Mohammad Shahzad 61), Scotland 156/5 (George Munsey 41)