Afghanistan got their Tri-Series campaign off to a strong start with a comfortable eight-wicket win over Scotland in Dubai.
Afsar Zazai and Nasir Jamal put together an unbroken partnership of 104 to see their side home as they continue preparations for the World Cup with a short tournament against Ireland and Scotland.
After a delayed start due to fog, Afghanistan won the toss and and made an immediate breakthrough, removing Calum MacLeod in the first over with just a single on the board.
50 for Gardiner from 60 balls (8x4s) - well batted! pic.twitter.com/tDjUKgQ5bM
— Cricket Scotland (@CricketScotland) January 8, 2015
Dawlat Zadran went on to claim 3-41 after striking in the opening over, and was influential in reducing Scotland to 120 for five in the 30th.
However Hamish Gardiner staged a fightback and fell just shy of a maiden one-day international hundred when he was dismissed for 96, but his innings helped his side reach 237 for eight at the end of their 45 overs.
Afghanistan got their reply off to an excellent start with a 121-run opening partnership before Usman Ghani fell for a 39-ball 48.
Javed Ahmadi was dismissed for 74 soon after but Zazai and Jamal, who finished unbeaten on 48 and 52 respectively, kept the run-rate high and ensured that Afghanistan took first blood in the opening game of the series.
Javed Ahmadi (74 81b) Usman Ghani (48 39b) Afsar Zazai (48 58b) Nasir jamal (52 51b) all youngsters have contributed brilliantly in the win.
— Afghan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) January 8, 2015