Woeful West Indies fail to reach World Cup for first time after defeat against Scotland

West Indies will miss the 50-over World Cup finals for the first time after falling to a shock defeat against Scotland in the qualifying clash in Harare on Saturday.

The seven-wicket loss made it three defeats out of three for Shai Hope's side in the Cricket World Cup Qualifier Super Six stage.

The Caribbean side, needing a win to keep their slim qualification hopes alive, were bowled out for 181 in their 50 overs before Scotland chased down the target with 6.3 overs to spare.

The Windies have zero points with only two matches remaining in Zimbabwe after previous defeats by the hosts and the Netherlands.

The global one-day showpiece, which will be held in India from October 5 until November 19, will be notable for the absence of one of the sport's traditional powerhouses.

The West Indies had previously played at every World Cup, winning the first two finals in 1975 and 1979.

“There's not one thing to put my finger on,” said Hope to Sky Sports afterwards. “We've certainly let ourselves down here in the entire tournament. We need to look at the way we start our innings.

When asked whether there was a specific problem affecting the team, Hope added: “The mindset. Fielding is well and truly an attitude, in my opinion. We need to make more effort, especially with our attitude.

“Catches will drop, misfields will happen, it's all part of the game. The effort needs to remain, regardless. I don't think we gave 100 per cent effort every time.”

Scotland all-rouder Brandon McMullen took 3-32 and then scored 69 during the win over West Indies. AP

“It starts with foundation. The preparation needs to be better, from back home. We can't come here and expect to be an elite team without the backing and preparation.

Scotland exacted