PRESTON Mommsen believes Scotland can overcome bogey team Afghanistan to launch their T20 World Cup bid in style.

The Scots must top a group also featuring Zimbabwe and Hong Kong if they are to progress to face the big guns in the Super Ten phase.

And Mommsen, whose side fly to India next week, admits a winning start is vital.

The national skipper said: “We’re happy with the draw and it’s exciting to start against Afghanistan.

“I know our record against them isn’t great and they are really challenging opponents in any conditions but the fact we know them is an advantage.

“We have already started preparing for that match and will have specific plans for certain players.”

Hard-hitting opener Mo Shahzad, who scored 75 from just 36 balls when the Afghans beat Scotland in last year’s qualifying tournament, is rated a major threat.

Mommsen added: “We know they have guys who often stand up on the big occasions and we know the importance of getting on top of them.

“We will be raring to go against them and we know a winning start could be crucial.

“It will also be exciting to come up against Zimbabwe – a side I have never played against – and Hong Kong whom we know well from our recent tour there.

“We will have to be at our very best and hope that the rub of the green goes with us along the way but we are confident we can go through.”

A successful group campaign would see Scotland join England, South Africa, West Indies and holders Sri Lanka in the Super Ten.

Warm up matches
4 Mar –Scotland v Oman, IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali (19h30)
6 Mar – Scotland v Netherlands, Sector-16, Mohali (15h00

Group Schedule:
March 8 - Scotland v Afghanistan
March 10 – Scotland v Zimbabwe
March 12 – Scotland v Hong Kong