The Zimbabweans were put into bat by Hong Kong in the opening round Group B clash at the New VCA Stadium, and posted 158-8 which proved to be just about enough.

Opener Vusi Sibanda blasted 59 from 46 balls to become the first half-centurion of the tournament, with Elton Chigumbura’s unbeaten 30 from just 13 deliveries – including three sixes – also proving to be a more than handy contribution.

Tanwir Afzal was best with the ball for Hong Kong, taking 2-19, but with the bat his side could not keep up with the rate against their more established opponents, who boast test status.

Wicket-keeper opener Jamie Atkinson helped himself to 53 from 44 balls with Afzal providing the best support thanks to an unbeaten 31, but they could only finish on 144-6.

Hong Kong now face a tough ask to reach the quarter-finals.

Only the winners of two initial four team groups, which feature lower ranked and associate nations, will advance to the Super 10s phase where the big hitters come in.

Afghanistan’s Group B victory came against Scotland as they posted a competitive 170-5 after electing to bat.

A partnership between Mohammad Shahzad, who made 61, and skipper Asghar Stanikzai, who was unbeaten on 55, proved key as the Afghans made it to 107-1 at one stage.

Their cause wasn’t aided by two run-outs, but a disciplined bowling display kept the Scots’ total down after their opponents had raced to 84 without loss.

Openers George Munsey and Kyle Coetzer fell for 41 and 40 respectively in the space of three balls and Scotland quickly collapsed to 108-4, unable to recover as they finished their 20 overs on 156-5.

Tomorrow sees two Group A games, with Ireland playing Oman and Bangladesh facing The Netherlands at at Dharamsala.