Scotland's disappointing World Cup qualifying campaign hit a new low when they slumped to a heavy defeat at the hands of a slick Pakistan outfit in Stellenbosch.

Skittled for just 26 - the second lowest total in their history  the gulf in class was painfully obvious in a tournament which was always going to represent a steep learning curve for Fiona Urquhart's side.

In the event, Urquhart was unable to take part in this 252-run reverse due to a finger injury while coach Simon Smith struggled to find eleven fit players as a tough week in South Africa began to take its toll.

Scotland's total was just two higher than their worst ever score of 24 against England in 2001.

At least the Scots also avoided the ignominy of recording the lowest total of the tournament after Bermuda's women mustered just THIRTEEN against South Africa on Monday.

And, even in adversity, there was a story of personal triumph as Kari Anderson claimed 5-61  the best bowling performance in the history of Scottish women's cricket  while the Pakistani's piled on the runs to finish on 278-7.

In response the Scots never recovered from a disastrous start with Extras top-scoring on 11 and Charlotte Bascombe contributing 6.

Smith, shocked by his side's capitulation, admitted: "It's a shame that a terrible batting performance should take the gloss off Kari's achievement.

"She bowled brilliantly but our batting took several steps backwards after Tuesday's terrific effort against Ireland. It's time to toughen up and learn our lessons if we are to compete."

Smith must now lift his side for tomorrow's place play-off with Papua New Guinea.