Darwish Rasooli’s 84 and Azmatullah Omarzai’s Three-Wicket Haul Power Dominant Victory
Afghanistan kicked off their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with an impressive 61-run victory over Scotland in the opening warm-up fixture at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru on February 2, 2026. Darwish Rasooli’s swashbuckling 84 off 46 balls powered Afghanistan to 184/6, before their bowlers, led by Azmatullah Omarzai’s excellent 3/14, bundled Scotland out for just 123 in 19.3 overs.
Match Result:
- Afghanistan: 184/6 (20 overs)
- Scotland: 123 all out (19.3 overs)
- Result: Afghanistan won by 61 runs
- Player of the Match: Darwish Rasooli (84 off 46 balls)
Match Summary
Afghanistan Innings: 184/6 (20 Overs)
Toss: Afghanistan won the toss and elected to bat first
Key Performers:
- Darwish Rasooli: 84 (46) – 7 fours, 5 sixes (retired out)
- Ibrahim Zadran: 36 (32) – 2 fours, 1 six
- Mohammad Nabi: 34 (16) – 2 fours, 2 sixes
- Shahidullah Kamal: 9* (4) – 1 six
- Gulbadin Naib: 3 (8)
- Sediqullah Atal: 6 (7) – 1 four
- Azmatullah Omarzai: 3 (6)
Bowling for Scotland:
- Mark Watt: 2/27 (4 overs)
- Brad Currie: 2/32 (4 overs)
- Jack Jarvis: 2/39 (4 overs)
Scotland Innings: 123 All Out (19.3 Overs)
Target: 185 runs
Key Performers:
- Mark Watt: 15 (7)
- Matthew Cross: 17* (18) – 1 four, 1 six
- George Munsey: Dismissed early
- Brandon McMullen: Low score
- Richie Berrington: Failed to deliver
Bowling for Afghanistan:
- Azmatullah Omarzai: 3/14 (4 overs) – Best figures
- Ziaur Rahman Sharifi: 2 wickets
- Mohammad Nabi: 2 wickets
- Mujeeb Ur Rahman: 1/27 (3 overs)
- Gulbadin Naib: 0/8 (1 over)
Match Report: Afghanistan’s Dominant Display
First Innings – Afghanistan Build Strong Total
Early Setbacks (20/2): Afghanistan won the toss and elected to bat first on a wicket that provided some assistance to the bowlers at the BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground 1. Left-arm medium pacer Brad Currie spearheaded Scotland’s attack brilliantly in the powerplay.
Early Wickets:
- Gulbadin Naib dismissed by Jack Jarvis for 3 (8 balls)
- Sediqullah Atal caught by Currie off Mark Watt for 6 (7 balls, 1 four)
- Afghanistan reduced to 20/2 in first 4 overs
Match-Turning Partnership (82 runs for 3rd wicket): Darwish Rasooli, batting at number 4, joined opener Ibrahim Zadran to rescue Afghanistan from a precarious position. The pair put on a crucial 82-run stand that completely changed the complexion of the innings.
Ibrahim Zadran’s Composure: The opener played the anchor role perfectly, scoring 36 off 32 balls with 2 fours and 1 six. His innings featured a picturesque lofted drive that showcased his class and timing. Zadran’s measured approach allowed Rasooli to attack from the other end.
Darwish Rasooli’s Masterclass: The 24-year-old Afghan batsman produced an innings of the highest quality:
- 84 runs off just 46 balls
- 7 boundaries and 5 maximums
- Strike rate: 182.61
- Partnership contribution: Led the 82-run stand with Zadran
- Death overs assault: Smashed two sixes in the 15th over by Chris Greaves (15 runs from the over)
Retired Out Decision: In an unusual move, Rasooli retired out after his brilliant innings, allowing fresh batsmen to come in for the death overs. This tactical decision showed Afghanistan’s intent to maximize their total.
Death Overs Explosion: Veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi provided the late fireworks Afghanistan needed:
- 34 runs off just 16 balls
- Strike rate: 212.50
- 2 fours and 2 sixes
- Crucial death overs acceleration
Shahidullah Kamal chipped in with 9* off 4 balls (including 1 six), while Rashid Khan was unbeaten on 1* off 1 ball as Afghanistan finished on 184/6.
Final Total: 184/6 – Competitive score on helpful surface
Second Innings – Afghanistan’s Clinical Bowling
Scotland’s Failed Chase: Chasing 185 runs for victory, Scotland’s innings never got off the ground. They lost wickets at regular intervals and were unable to build any substantial partnerships.
Early Breakthrough: Azmatullah Omarzai provided the first breakthrough by dismissing George Munsey in the fifth over. This set the tone for what would be a dominant bowling performance.
Middle Order Collapse (4 wickets for 26 runs): After losing Munsey, Scotland’s next four wickets fell for just 26 runs, effectively ending their chase. The pressure created by Afghanistan’s disciplined bowling proved too much.
Bowling Masterclass:
Azmatullah Omarzai’s Spell: The pace-bowling all-rounder produced career-best T20I figures:
- 3 wickets for just 14 runs in 4 overs
- Economy rate: 3.50 – Exceptional in T20 cricket
- Bowled with excellent discipline and variation
- Picked up crucial top and middle-order wickets
Spin Duo’s Contribution:
- Mohammad Nabi: 2 wickets – Used his experience perfectly
- Ziaur Rahman Sharifi: 2 wickets – Tight lines and lengths
- Mujeeb Ur Rahman: 1/27 – Economical spell
Scotland’s Resistance: Only Mark Watt (15 off 7) and Matthew Cross (17* off 18, with 1 four and 1 six) showed any resistance, but it was far too little as wickets kept tumbling at the other end.
Final Wicket: Mujeeb Ur Rahman bowled Mark Watt to end Scotland’s innings at 123 in 19.3 overs.
Final Result: Afghanistan won by 61 runs – Comprehensive victory
Player of the Match: Darwish Rasooli
Career-Defining Innings
Statistics:
- 84 runs off 46 balls
- 7 fours and 5 sixes
- Strike rate: 182.61
- Retired out (tactical decision)
Impact: Rasooli’s innings was the foundation of Afghanistan’s competitive total. His ability to counter-attack after early wickets, build a crucial partnership with Zadran, and then accelerate in the death overs showcased his maturity and skill.
Key Moments:
- Steadied the ship at 20/2
- Built 82-run partnership with Zadran
- Smashed two sixes in one over off Chris Greaves
- Retired out to allow fresh batsmen for death overs
Tournament Significance: This innings will give Rasooli tremendous confidence heading into Afghanistan’s opening T20 World Cup match against New Zealand on February 8 in Chennai.
What This Result Means
For Afghanistan
Positives:
- Rasooli in excellent form ahead of World Cup
- Bowling attack firing on all cylinders
- Omarzai’s all-round abilities showcased
- Nabi still dangerous in death overs
- Team showed fighting spirit after early setbacks
- 2024 semi-finalists building momentum
Areas to Improve:
- Top order needs stability (20/2 start concerning)
- Middle order batting depth to be tested
- Need partnerships throughout innings
Semi-Final Pedigree: Afghanistan reached the semi-finals of the 2024 T20 World Cup and are aiming for another strong campaign in 2026.
Next Match: Afghanistan vs West Indies on February 4, 2026 at BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground 1, Bengaluru (3:00 PM)
Tournament Opener: Afghanistan vs New Zealand on February 8, 2026 at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
For Scotland
Positives:
- Early wickets showed bowling has potential
- Currie, Watt, and Jarvis all picked up 2 wickets
- Bowlers restricted Afghanistan to 184/6
Major Concerns:
- Batting completely collapsed (123 all out)
- No substantial partnerships built
- Unable to handle pressure of 185-run chase
- Middle order failed collectively
- Looked unprepared for tournament intensity
Tournament Context: Scotland replaced Bangladesh in the tournament after Bangladesh’s removal due to the India venue controversy. They need significant improvement before the main event.
Next Match: Scotland vs Namibia on February 4, 2026 at BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground 2, Bengaluru (1:00 PM)
Tournament Opener: Scotland vs West Indies on February 7, 2026 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata
Venue Details: BCCI Centre of Excellence, Bengaluru
Match Information
Date: February 2, 2026 Time: 3:00 PM IST (9:30 AM GMT) Format: Day-Night match (20 overs per side) Umpires: Abhijeet Bengeri (India), P Jayapal (India) Ground: BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground 1, Bengaluru
Venue Characteristics
Pitch Conditions:
- Provided some assistance to bowlers
- Pace and bounce available early
- Slowed down as match progressed
- Favored disciplined bowling
- Batting required application
First Match of Tournament: This was the opening warm-up fixture of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, setting the tone for the tournament.
Key Statistics and Records
Batting Records
Highest Individual Scores:
- Darwish Rasooli (AFG): 84 (46)
- Ibrahim Zadran (AFG): 36 (32)
- Mohammad Nabi (AFG): 34 (16)
- Matthew Cross (SCO): 17* (18)
- Mark Watt (SCO): 15 (7)
Strike Rates:
- Mohammad Nabi: 212.50 (34 off 16)
- Shahidullah Kamal: 225.00 (9* off 4)
- Darwish Rasooli: 182.61 (84 off 46)
Partnership Records:
- 3rd wicket: 82 runs (Rasooli & Zadran) – Match-winning stand
- Opening partnership: Failed for both teams
Bowling Statistics
Best Bowling Figures:
- Azmatullah Omarzai (AFG): 3/14 (4 overs) – Economy: 3.50
- Ziaur Rahman Sharifi (AFG): 2 wickets
- Mohammad Nabi (AFG): 2 wickets
- Mark Watt (SCO): 2/27 (4 overs)
- Brad Currie (SCO): 2/32 (4 overs)
- Jack Jarvis (SCO): 2/39 (4 overs)
Most Economical: Azmatullah Omarzai with an economy rate of 3.50 – Outstanding in T20 cricket
Wicket Distribution: Afghanistan used five bowlers effectively, with wickets shared across the attack.
Group Stage Preview
Afghanistan’s Group D
Teams:
- Afghanistan
- Canada
- New Zealand
- South Africa
- UAE
Expectations: As 2024 semi-finalists, Afghanistan are expected to qualify from this group alongside South Africa or New Zealand.
Key Matches:
- vs New Zealand (Feb 8) – Crucial opening game
- vs South Africa – Battle of strong teams
- vs Canada – Should win
- vs UAE – Must-win fixture
Scotland’s Group
Group Assignment: Scotland will compete in their assigned group, facing tough opposition throughout.
Challenge: As Bangladesh’s replacement, Scotland face an uphill battle. They need to show significant improvement from this warm-up performance.
Expert Analysis
Afghanistan’s Template
Aggressive Intent: Despite losing early wickets, Afghanistan showed they won’t be intimidated. Rasooli’s counter-attacking approach set the tone.
Bowling Depth: Five different bowlers taking wickets shows excellent variety and depth. The ability to use multiple options keeps pressure on opposition.
Death Overs Strength: Nabi’s 34 off 16 balls proves Afghanistan have firepower in the death overs. This could be crucial in tight matches.
Scotland’s Concerns
Batting Fragility: Being bowled out for 123 while chasing 185 exposes serious batting issues. The middle order needs urgent attention.
Lack of Partnerships: No substantial partnerships in the chase meant Scotland were always behind the required rate.
Preparation Questions: This performance raises questions about Scotland’s readiness for T20 World Cup intensity.
What’s Next for Both Teams
Afghanistan’s Schedule
Remaining Warm-Up:
- February 4, 2026: Afghanistan vs West Indies
- Venue: BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground 1, Bengaluru
- Time: 3:00 PM IST
- Significance: Final preparation before tournament
Tournament Opener:
- February 8, 2026: Afghanistan vs New Zealand
- Venue: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
- Group: Group D
- Importance: Sets tone for campaign
Scotland’s Schedule
Remaining Warm-Up:
- February 4, 2026: Scotland vs Namibia
- Venue: BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground 2, Bengaluru
- Time: 1:00 PM IST
- Must-Win: Need confidence boost
Tournament Opener:
- February 7, 2026: Scotland vs West Indies
- Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
- Challenge: Facing strong Caribbean side
- Task: Avoid heavy defeat
Broadcast and Streaming Information
Where to Watch
India:
- JioHotstar: Live streaming
- Star Sports: Highlights
- All Afghanistan matches available
Global:
- ICC.tv: Free streaming worldwide
- Available in multiple languages
Afghanistan:
- AF Sports: Live broadcast of all Afghanistan matches
Pakistan:
- Myco, Tamasha, Tapmad, ARY Zapp: All matches
United Kingdom:
- Sky Sports: Select matches including this one
North America:
- Willow: All warm-up matches
Sri Lanka:
- ThePapare and Dialog Play: Live streaming
Tournament Context
Warm-Up Matches Overview
Total Matches: 16 warm-up games Dates: February 2-6, 2026 Venues:
- India: BCCI Centre of Excellence (Bengaluru), DY Patil Stadium (Mumbai), MA Chidambaram Stadium (Chennai)
- Sri Lanka: SSC Ground, R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo Cricket Club (all in Colombo)
Purpose:
- Acclimatization to conditions
- Team combinations testing
- Player form assessment
- Injury recovery monitoring
- Confidence building
Tournament Proper: Begins February 7, 2026
Key Takeaways
For Afghanistan
Positives:
- Darwish Rasooli in sensational form
- Bowling attack balanced and effective
- Omarzai’s all-round value confirmed
- Nabi still impactful in death overs
- Team resilience after early setbacks
- Semi-final experience shows
Focus Areas:
- Top order stability needed
- Avoid early wickets
- Build bigger opening partnerships
For Scotland
Positives:
- Bowling took wickets in powerplay
- All three main bowlers picked up 2 wickets
Major Concerns:
- Batting collapse (123 all out)
- No partnerships of substance
- Pressure handling inadequate
- Looked unprepared for intensity
- Need significant improvement
Conclusion
Afghanistan’s comprehensive 61-run victory over Scotland in the opening warm-up fixture of T20 World Cup 2026 sends a strong message to their tournament rivals. Darwish Rasooli’s magnificent 84 and Azmatullah Omarzai’s clinical 3/14 highlighted Afghanistan’s balanced squad.
As 2024 semi-finalists, Afghanistan have shown they’re ready to compete at the highest level once again. Their combination of aggressive batting and disciplined bowling makes them genuine contenders in Group D.
For Scotland, replacing Bangladesh at short notice was always going to be challenging, but this performance exposes areas needing urgent attention. With their tournament opener against West Indies just five days away, Scotland must regroup quickly.
Both teams have one more warm-up match on February 4 before the tournament proper begins, providing opportunities to fine-tune their preparations.
Tournament Countdown: 5 days until T20 World Cup 2026 begins
