Cricket: Bangladesh repeat the aim for Scots

PETE Steindl’s new-look Saltires will today re-enter the T20 arena and try to emulate their last outing in the short form of the game.

The Scots haven’t had any 20-over action since their stunning win over Bangladesh in July. But Steindl is hoping his side, with up to three new faces, can produce similar fireworks when they open their South African tour against Highveld Lions.

He said: “The win over Bangladesh was undoubtedly the highlight of our summer and proved we can handle the demands of T20. It really was a team effort.”

Gloucestershire wicketkeeper Richard Coughtrie is poised for his debut, while Sussex batsman Matt Machan may also start for the first time. Both qualify under the ICC’s new parentage rule along with David Murphy of Northants and Leicestershire’s Rob Taylor who will join the squad later this week.

However, Stoneywood-Dyce batsman Michael Leask may have to wait for his bow after a scheduled match with Kolkata Knight Riders was put back 24 hours. The Scots were originally due to open their tour with two matches on the same day, giving Steindl the chance to field all 13 tourists. The coach added: “We’ll wait to see how the guys are in the morning before deciding who will play [against Kolkata]”.