The Australia v Scotland pre-match build-up did not include any talk of an upset in the 1999 World Cup and the eventual champions led by Steve Waugh, did win their New Road tie on May 16. However, Australia couldn't call it a smooth ride especially when it came to surpassing Scotland's World Cup debut total of 181-7. Mr Extras was top scorer with 39 and Scotland were helped by an entertaining 62-run partnership in 57 balls by George Hamilton and James Brinkley.

Left-arm pacer Asim Butt struck first to dismiss Adam Gilchrist with only 17 on board. Opener Mark Waugh and one-drop Ricky Ponting put their heads down to produce an 84-run second wicket stand in nearly 22 overs.