Afghanistan vs Scotland T20 Match Preview – 2 February 2026

Match Details

• Date: 2 February 2026 (Monday)
• Time: 3:00 PM IST / 09:30 AM GMT
• Venue: BCCI Centre of Excellence, Bengaluru, India
• Format: T20
• Series: ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 – Warm-Up Matches

Match Context

As the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 approaches, teams are entering the final phase of their preparations. The match between Afghanistan and Scotland on 2 February 2026 is one of the key warm-up fixtures in Bengaluru, offering both sides a crucial opportunity to fine-tune their strategies ahead of the tournament.

Scheduled just a few days before the World Cup begins on 7 February, this match is an ideal platform for both teams to test their squads, experiment with combinations, and adapt to the conditions they may encounter during the main event.

Team Form and Recent Performances

Afghanistan

Afghanistan has emerged as one of the most consistent associate teams in T20 cricket. With a blend of explosive batting and world-class spin bowling, they have the potential to trouble even the top-tier teams.

• Key Players: Rashid Khan (spin), Mohammad Nabi (all-rounder), Ibrahim Zadran (batsman), and Mujeeb Ur Rahman (pacer) are expected to feature.
• Strengths: Afghanistan's spin department, led by Rashid Khan and Mujeeb, is one of the most lethal in world cricket. Their lower-order finishers are also known for their ability to take games to the last over.

Scotland

Scotland, though not as dominant as Afghanistan, has shown glimpses of their potential in high-stakes matches. Their batting line-up, anchored by George Munsey and captain Kyle Coetzer, has the capability to post competitive totals.

• Key Players: George Munsey (batsman), Kyle Coetzer (captain), Safyaan Sharif (pacer), and Josh Davey (all-rounder) are likely to play pivotal roles.
• Strengths: Scotland's top-order is one of the most explosive in T20 cricket. Their ability to score quickly can put pressure on the opposition’s bowlers.

Head-to-Head

In their previous encounters, Afghanistan has generally held the upper hand. The Afghans' spin-friendly conditions and disciplined bowling have often given them an edge. However, Scotland has the ability to disrupt these plans if they can post a strong total and execute their chase effectively.

Pitch and Weather Conditions

The match will be played at the BCCI Centre of Excellence, Bengaluru, a venue known for balanced conditions. The pitch is expected to offer a fair contest between bat and ball, with moderate assistance for spinners as the game progresses.

• Pitch Type: Balanced, with good bounce and carry in the early overs, and likely to slow down as the match progresses.
• Weather: Bengaluru is expected to have mild to warm conditions with minimal chances of rain. The humidity, however, may slightly affect the outfield pace.

Team News and Possible Lineups

Afghanistan (Probable XI)

• Mohammad Nabi (C)
• Ibrahim Zadran
• Hazratullah Zadran
• Rahmat Shah
• Rashid Khan
• Najibullah Zadran
• Mujeeb Ur Rahman
• Afsar Zazai
• Mohammad Shahzad
• Samir Raees
• Gulbadin Naib (Reserve)

Afghanistan may rotate their squad to give all players match practice. Rashid Khan and Mujeeb are expected to feature prominently in the bowling attack.

Scotland (Probable XI)

• Kyle Coetzer (C)
• George Munsey
• Calum MacLeod
• Conrad Smith
• Alasdair Evans
• Josh Davey
• Safyaan Sharif
• Marvin Blythe
• Craig Wallace
• Barry McCarthy
• Rizwan Cheema (Reserve)

Scotland might experiment with their batting order and bowling combinations. Josh Davey and Safyaan Sharif are expected to provide the all-round threat.

Key Battle to Watch

• Rashid Khan vs George Munsey: The duel between Afghanistan’s spin maestro and Scotland’s explosive opener could determine the match's flow.
• Scotland's Powerplay vs Afghanistan's Bowling Lineup: How effectively Scotland can capitalize on the powerplay could set the tone for the game.
• Lower-Order Finishers: Both teams have aggressive lower-order batters who can turn the game in the last few overs.

Prediction

This match is expected to be a closely contested affair. If Afghanistan can control the middle overs and restrict Scotland's scoring rate, they could take control. However, if Scotland can post a competitive total and chase down effectively, they could give Afghanistan a scare.

Prediction: Afghanistan to win by 5-6 runs.

Where to Watch

• Live Streaming: The match will be available on JioCinema and Hotstar in India.
• Live Scores and Commentary: Available on the ICC website and cricket news platforms.
• Television: The match may be televised on Star Sports in India.

Final Thoughts

The Afghanistan vs Scotland warm-up match is a crucial opportunity for both teams to assess their readiness for the T20 World Cup. With balanced conditions and a high-stakes tournament just around the corner, every session on the field matters. Fans can expect a competitive game with plenty of action, as both sides aim to make a strong final impression before the main event.
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