Scotland made a decent start to their second innings in the ICC Inter-Continental Cup clash against Afghanistan but still face a stiff task to rescue a draw.

Afghanistan earlier declared on 249 for five, with Mohammad Shahzad unbeaten on 105, to leave the visitors in the driving seat.

Majid Haq took two wickets for Scotland, who were bowled out for 139 in their first innings at Citylets Ayr.

Scotland, who lead the way in the group, were set a target of 546 runs and they finished the penultimate day of the contest on 95 for two.

Fraser Watts could only score eight before being bowled out by Hamid Hassan before Ryan Flannigan was bowled for 32 by off-spinner Mohammad Nabi in the 30th over.

However, Ewan Chalmers was into his stride by that point, ending the day unbeaten on 37 after striking eight fours.

Richie Berrington (five not out) also hit an early boundary as Scotland clung to their hope of averting defeat.