Scotland vs West Indies: Probable Playing XI & Head-to-Head Records for T20 World Cup 2026

The T20 World Cup 2026 continues with an exciting Group C encounter as Scotland takes on West Indies at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on February 07, 2026. This day-night clash at 2:30 PM local time promises fireworks as both teams look to establish early dominance in what could be a fiercely competitive group. Scotland enters with confidence after their historic 42-run victory in their last meeting, while West Indies will be desperate to prove they remain a force in T20 cricket.

This match is crucial for both teams’ T20 World Cup 2026 campaigns, as Group C promises intense competition with every point counting toward knockout qualification.

Match Overview: Scotland vs West Indies

Scotland Probable Playing XI

Based on recent performances and squad composition, Scotland’s likely lineup features a balanced mix of explosive batting and disciplined bowling. George Munsey and Michael Jones are expected to open the innings, providing the aggressive start Scotland needs. The middle order will likely include Brandon McMullen, Richie Berrington (c), and Matthew Cross (wk), offering stability and acceleration options. The lower order could feature all-rounders Michael Leask and Chris Greaves, who provide crucial batting depth. The bowling attack will probably comprise Mark Watt as the primary spinner, supported by pacers Brad Wheal, Safyaan Sharif, and Brad Currie. This combination gives Scotland six genuine bowling options while maintaining batting depth down to number eight.

Scotland Predicted XI: George Munsey, Michael Jones, Brandon McMullen, Richie Berrington (c), Matthew Cross (wk), Michael Leask, Chris Greaves, Mark Watt, Brad Wheal, Safyaan Sharif, Brad Currie

The tournament schedule shows this match kicking off an action-packed day of World Cup cricket across multiple venues.

West Indies Probable Playing XI

West Indies will look to field their most explosive combination to bounce back from their last encounter with Scotland. Brandon King and Evin Lewis are likely to open, bringing Caribbean flair and power-hitting ability. The middle order should feature Shimron Hetmyer, Nicholas Pooran (wk), and Rovman Powell (c), forming one of the most dangerous batting lineups in the tournament. All-rounder Jason Holder provides experience and stability at number six. The bowling attack will probably include Matthew Forde, Alzarri Joseph, and Romario Shepherd as the pace trio, with Akeal Hosein handling spin duties and Holder as the fifth bowling option.

West Indies Predicted XI: Brandon King, Evin Lewis, Shimron Hetmyer, Nicholas Pooran (wk), Rovman Powell (c), Jason Holder, Romario Shepherd, Akeal Hosein, Matthew Forde, Alzarri Joseph, Gudakesh Motie

Head-to-Head Record: Scotland vs West Indies (T20Is)

The head-to-head record between these teams is extremely limited, making this fixture particularly intriguing. Scotland won their last encounter by 42 runs on October 17, 2022, a result that shocked the cricket world and demonstrated Scotland’s growing competitiveness. That victory came at a crucial moment and proved that Scotland can compete with established T20 powerhouses when they execute their game plan perfectly.

This limited history means both teams enter without the psychological baggage of repeated defeats, though Scotland will draw confidence from their recent success. West Indies, meanwhile, will be eager to prove that result was an anomaly rather than a trend. Check the Group C standings to see how this match impacts qualification scenarios.

Recent Form Analysis

Scotland’s Last 5 T20 Matches

Scotland shows inconsistent form with 2 wins, 2 losses, and 1 abandoned match in their last five outings. However, their wins have been convincing, suggesting they can peak at the right moments. The losses indicate vulnerability against quality opposition, but their ability to surprise bigger teams makes them dangerous.

West Indies’ Last 5 T20 Matches

West Indies’ recent form of 2 wins and 3 losses raises concerns about consistency. This inconsistency has plagued Caribbean cricket in recent years, with flashes of brilliance followed by disappointing defeats. Their batting firepower remains undeniable, but bowling and fielding lapses have cost them matches they should have won.

Key Players to Watch

Scotland’s Match-Winners

George Munsey (Opening Batter) Recent Stats: 10 matches, 296 runs, 29.6 average, 150.25 strike rate. Munsey’s aggressive approach at the top provides Scotland with quick starts and momentum. His ability to take down quality bowlers in the powerplay makes him Scotland’s most dangerous weapon.

Brandon McMullen (Batting Allrounder) Recent Stats: 10 matches, 266 runs, 26.6 average, 137.82 strike rate. McMullen offers balance with both bat and ball, providing crucial middle-overs stability and part-time bowling options when needed.

Michael Leask (Allrounder) Recent Stats: 6 matches, 9 wickets, 5.59 economy, 11.33 strike rate. Leask’s tight bowling in the middle overs restricts opposition scoring and picks up crucial wickets. His lower-order hitting also provides finishing power.

Mark Watt (Spinner) Recent Stats: 10 matches, 9 wickets, 7.64 economy, 24 strike rate. Watt controls the middle overs with his left-arm spin, making him Scotland’s primary wicket-taking option during the crucial middle phase.

West Indies’ Dangermen

Shimron Hetmyer (Middle-Order Batter) Recent Stats: 6 matches, 233 runs, 46.6 average, 184.92 strike rate. Hetmyer’s explosive strike rate makes him one of the most feared finishers in world cricket. When he fires, even the biggest targets become achievable.

Brandon King (Opening Batter) Recent Stats: 6 matches, 177 runs, 29.5 average, 137.2 strike rate. King provides solid starts and can accelerate quickly once set, giving West Indies the platform they need for their power-hitters.

Matthew Forde (Bowler) Recent Stats: 8 matches, 8 wickets, 7.74 economy, 19.87 strike rate. Forde’s ability to take early wickets and control the death overs makes him West Indies’ most reliable bowling option.

Jason Holder (All-rounder) Recent Stats: 6 matches, 4 wickets, 10.41 economy, 28.25 strike rate. Holder brings experience and composure, crucial for a young West Indies side in pressure situations.

Venue Analysis: Eden Gardens, Kolkata

Eden Gardens, one of cricket’s most iconic venues, provides a unique challenge with its large boundaries and passionate crowd. The stadium capacity and atmosphere create an intimidating environment for visiting teams. The pitch typically offers good batting conditions early on but can slow down as the match progresses, bringing spinners into play during the middle and death overs. Dew factor in evening matches often makes chasing easier, which could influence the toss decision significantly. Teams batting second have historically enjoyed advantages here in day-night fixtures. The points table will start taking shape after this crucial Group C encounter.

Venue Details: Capacity: Approximately 68,000 spectators Pitch nature: Good for batting, assists spinners later Average T20 score: 165-175 (first innings) Chasing record: Favorable for teams batting second

Match Prediction & Key Battles

Predicted Winner: This match could go either way. West Indies possess superior firepower on paper with explosive batters throughout their lineup. However, Scotland’s recent victory and disciplined approach make them dangerous underdogs who thrive when underestimated. If Scotland’s bowlers can contain Hetmyer and Powell, they have a genuine chance. If West Indies’ batting clicks, their class should prevail.

Key Battles to Watch: George Munsey vs Matthew Forde (powerplay clash) Michael Leask vs Shimron Hetmyer (middle-overs control vs power) Mark Watt vs Nicholas Pooran (spin vs aggression) Brandon McMullen vs Jason Holder (emerging talent vs experience)

Group C Dynamics & Tournament Context

Both teams understand that Group C will be fiercely competitive, making this opening match crucial for building momentum and confidence. A win here provides psychological advantage and breathing room for the remainder of the group stage. Net run rate could become decisive in tight qualification scenarios, so both teams will look to win convincingly rather than scrape through. Scotland’s underdog status works in their favor as they play with freedom, while West Indies carry the pressure of expectations. Follow comprehensive team analysis for in-depth player profiles and tactical breakdowns.

What Each Team Needs

Scotland’s Path to Victory: Restrict West Indies to under 160 by taking early wickets. Munsey and McMullen must provide a strong foundation. Middle-order must avoid collapse against spin. Death bowling needs to be exceptional with yorkers and variations. Fielding must be sharp to save 10-15 runs.

West Indies’ Winning Formula: Power-hitting in powerplay to put pressure early. Hetmyer and Pooran partnership could be match-defining. Bowlers must take wickets in middle overs. Control the death overs when Scotland looks to accelerate. Avoid complacency against a dangerous Scotland side.

FAQs: Scotland vs West Indies T20 World Cup 2026

Q1: What is the predicted playing XI for Scotland vs West Indies? Scotland’s likely XI includes Munsey, Jones, McMullen, Berrington (c), Cross (wk), Leask, Greaves, Watt, Wheal, Sharif, and Currie. West Indies probable XI features King, Lewis, Hetmyer, Pooran (wk), Powell (c), Holder, Shepherd, Hosein, Forde, Joseph, and Motie.

Q2: What is the head-to-head record between Scotland and West Indies? Scotland won their last T20I encounter against West Indies by 42 runs on October 17, 2022, in the T20 World Cup 2022, making them 1-0 in recent meetings.

Q3: Who are the key players to watch in this match? For Scotland, watch George Munsey (296 runs in 10 matches), Michael Leask (9 wickets), and Mark Watt. For West Indies, Shimron Hetmyer (184.92 SR), Brandon King, and Matthew Forde are crucial.

Q4: What time does Scotland vs West Indies match start? The match begins at 2:30 PM IST (9:00 AM GMT) on February 07, 2026, at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.

Q5: What are the pitch conditions like at Eden Gardens? Eden Gardens offers good batting conditions with a tendency to slow down later, bringing spinners into play. Dew factor in day-night matches often favors chasing teams.

Q6: Which team is favorite to win this match? West Indies enter as favorites based on player quality and firepower, but Scotland’s recent victory over them and ability to upset bigger teams makes this a closely contested encounter.

Tournament Implications

This Group C opener sets the tone for both teams’ campaigns. Scotland will look to prove their 2022 victory wasn’t a fluke and establish themselves as genuine contenders. West Indies need to show they’ve addressed the issues that led to that embarrassing defeat. The winner gains crucial momentum and two points that could prove decisive in a tight group. Net run rate considerations mean both teams will look to win convincingly rather than settle for narrow margins. Stay updated with all T20 World Cup 2026 news and updates as the tournament unfolds with exciting matches across multiple venues. This Scotland vs West Indies clash promises entertainment, drama, and potentially another upset that could shake up the tournament dynamics!