ICC World Twenty20 Qualifier: Scotland vs Zimbabwe – Players to watch out for

Kyle Coetzer and Hamilton Maskadza will look to make the difference for their respective sides.

New Delhi: Scotland and Zimbabwe will take on each other in an intense battle in the ICC World Twenty20 qualifiying first round Group B encounter on Thursday at Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium, Jamtha, Nagpur.

Zimbabwe won their opening qualifying match against Hong Kong, but will need to better their play against Scotland. Zimbabwe will be eager to cap off a positive performance in order to see their chances of qualifying take a positive shape.

Zimbabwe will be relying on its spinners to do well in this tie.

The conditions will benefit spinners in between so runs atop and rotating strike in middle overs will be the key for both sides.

Meanwhile, Scotland failed to beat Afghanistan in their first tie and therefore are in a must-win scenario. Their batting especially the middle-order needs to come good and Thursday will be that opportunity for them to show their mettle.

Here is a player from each side who could go on and make a difference for their respective teams.

Kyle Coetzer (Scotland): The opening batsman will be relishing the opportunity upfront and start positively with partner George Munsey. The duo were fantastic against Afghanistan and stitched a valuable partnership. But with the out of form middle order, the onus will be on Coetzer to dictate the proceedings against Zimbabwe bowlers. His approach against the spin bowling and ability to read the game well will be key for Scotland. He scored a well made 40 in the first match.

Hamilton Maskadza (Zimbabwe): The skipper of the side is of huge value given his leadership and batting skills. The big player will be opening the batting along with in-form Vusi Sibanda and needs to give a good start for the African side. His ability to go big early is a big plus for Zimbabwe. Also his experience and leading the side well is a strong feature. Hamilton will need to be on top of his game and marshall his troops to cross the line against Scotland.