Scotland's brave cricketers gave mighty South Africa a scare before losing by six wickets in their opening World Cup Qualifier in Sri Lanka.

Scotland posted 142 thanks primarily to the battling efforts of veteran Kari Anderson.

She scored her 23rd half century for the Wildcats against the hostile Africans.

Her 118 ball innings contained five boundaries and was testament to her technique and stamina in gruelling conditions.

Liz Priddle (19) shared a 6th wicket stand of 56 with Anderson as the Scottish top order got starts but failed to capitalise.

Early wickets for Katie McGill and skipper Abbi Aitken gave them early hope, and an upset looked possible when Kirstie Gordon (2-39) dismissed Laura Woolvaardt (39) and Marizanne Kapp (7).

However those hopes were quickly extinguished as Chloe Tryon (45*) clubbed 8 fours and a six in an unbroken 5th wicket stand of 64 in 73 balls with Trisha Chetty (35*).

Much then for Scotland to be proud of and they will go into Friday's game against Bangladesh with great confidence.