West Indies defeated Scotland by 35 runs in an ICC Men’s T20 World Cup group match, powered by a destructive spell from Romario Shepherd and an aggressive batting display by Shimron Hetmyer.

Chasing a target of 183 at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, Scotland were bowled out for 147, falling short despite being well placed midway through the innings.

Earlier, the West Indies posted 182 for 5 in their 20 overs after opting to bat first. Hetmyer led the charge with a fluent 64 off 36 balls, hitting six sixes.

Sherfane Rutherford added 26, while Rovman Powell contributed 24. For Scotland, Brad Currie picked up two wickets.

In reply, Scotland showed resistance and at one stage were 114 for 3, needing 69 runs off 42 balls. The match turned dramatically in the 17th over when Romario Shepherd tore through the batting line-up, claiming four wickets in the over.

Shepherd finished with outstanding figures of 5 for 20, triggering a collapse that ended Scotland’s chase. Brandon McMullen top-scored for Scotland with 42 off 24 balls, but his effort was not enough to prevent defeat.

West Indies were sharp in the field as well. Hetmyer highlighted the effort with a stunning one-handed catch on the leg side to dismiss George Munsey.

It is worth noting that Scotland were invited to participate in the World Cup after Bangladesh withdrew from the tournament. Bangladesh declined to play in India, citing security concerns.