Ashraful leads to Bangladesh to a five-wicket win
With the Champions Trophy just around the corner, Bangladesh were unconvincing in their five-wicket victory over Scotland at Edinburgh
Wisden Cricinfo staff
02-Sep-2004
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With the Champions Trophy just around the corner, Bangladesh were unconvincing in their five-wicket victory over Scotland at Edinburgh. Defending a meager 143, Scotland's attack applied pressure on the batsmen but could not rein in Mohammad Ashraful, who scored 61 rapidly, with more boundaries than the entire Scottish side.
Craig Wright had braved injury to captain Scotland, and it was his decision to bat first. It was a choice he was soon to regret, as his openers could not handle the bowler-friendly conditions, and the side was in dire straits at 70 for 5. Bangladesh's bowlers shone, never letting the batsmen get away, and only Colin Smith (35) and Fraser Watts (26) could breach the attack.
For Scotland, who were more or less on an even keel with Bangladesh only a few years ago, it was a chastening experience where nothing seemed to work. Even their fielding, which often gave them cause for relief, showed up only in bits and pieces.