But for a defeat against Italy at last year's European qualifier, Scotland would have qualified for this tournament without needing to wait for the withdrawal of Bangladesh.

But today they were able to get revenge for that defeat with a thumping win over their European counterparts at Eden Gardens.

Playing their first ever World Cup match, Italy won the toss and asked Scotland to bat first. The opening pair of George Munsey and Michael Jones put on 126 before Munsey was dismissed for 84 (scored from 54 balls) in the 14th over. Jones was out in the next over for 37.

Munsey hits a six to bring up his fifty

There was no let up for the Italians though as Brandon McMullen hit an unbeaten 41 from 18 balls whilst Michael Leask clubbed 22 from only five balls to take Scotland to 207-4, the first total of this World Cup over 200.

Italy's reply didn't get off to the best start with Justin Mosca hitting the first ball to George Munsey at backward point who held on to the catch. JJ Smuts added a quick 22 from 11 balls before he fell in the fourth over, followed in the next over by Anthony Mosca who scored 11.

The Manentti brothers added 73 for the fourth wicket before Harry fell for 37, whilst Ben reached 52 from 31 balls before he was out at the end of the 14th over. With Wayne Madsen absent after sustaining an injury while fielding, Italy were bowled out for 134, losing by 73 runs.

Michael Leask took 4-17 and was awarded the player of the match for his fine all-round performance. He will be looking for a repeat of this in Scotland's next match on Saturday which will be against the auld enemy England. Scotland felt that they had England - who have never beaten another European side at the T20 World Cup - beat back in 2024 so will be looking to underline that with a statement win. Italy's next match is on Thursday against Nepal.