Scotland stuns Windies, wins by 42 runs. | © (timesofindia)
Michael Jones and Brad Wheal are back in Scotland’s squad for the Men’s T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA next month. However, an experienced Somerset bowler, Josh Davey, won’t join them this time.
Jones and Wheal weren’t part of Scotland’s team for the T20 Tri-Series against the Netherlands and Ireland earlier this month. But now, their respective teams, Durham and Hampshire, have given them the green light to play in the World Cup. Charlie Tear, a wicketkeeper from Sussex 2nd XI, is also in the squad. The only change from the Tri-Series squad is that Gavin Main, a seam bowler, won’t join them this time.
Unfortunately, Davey won’t be joining the squad despite playing a crucial role in Somerset’s impressive performance this season. During Somerset’s recent victory over Essex in the County Championship, he made significant contributions, especially with critical wickets. This victory has positioned Somerset just two points below the top spot in Division One.
Davey and his Somerset teammate Andrew Umeed, who has yet to play in T20I matches, weren’t available for selection for the World Cup. Davey’s absence is particularly disappointing because of his extensive experience. He has been part of Scotland’s last three T20 World Cup campaigns, including an impressive performance in the 2021 tournament, where he took nine wickets at an average of 13.66.
“It was tough deciding on the final 15-man squad,” said Doug Watson, Scotland’s head coach. Balancing the squad was crucial, and we’ve achieved that.
“We’re pleased to have some of our county players on board. We’re really excited about the chosen 15, and we’re now eagerly anticipating what’s to come.”
Scotland is due to play England (June 4), Namibia (June 6), Oman (June 9), and Australia (June 15) in Group B of the tournament. The top two sides from each group will progress to the Super Eight phase of the game, which will precede the knockout semi-finals and final.
“Having Michael Jones and Brad Wheal back is significant for us,” emphasized Watson. “Their experience from past T20 World Cups adds much to the team. Most of the squad has been together for a reasonable amount of time now, and they performed admirably last summer during both the 50-over World Cup Qualifier and the T20 Qualifier. It’s great to have that continuity, even though they have not played much cricket recently.
“We’re hopeful these players can maintain or even elevate their performance levels when we head to the Caribbean.”
“We’re all looking forward to what’s coming, and the players are as well, especially as we near the event. It’s a big chance for our nation to impact the world stage. The opening match against England will be significant, but we’re staying focused on the present without getting ahead of ourselves.”
Scotland squad: Richie Berrington (capt), Matthew Cross, Brad Currie, Chris Greaves, Ollie Hairs, Jack Jarvis, Michael Jones, Michael Leask, Brandon McMullen, George Munsey, Safyaan Sharif, Chris Sole, Charlie Tear, Mark Watt, Brad Wheal
