Saltires hit with Kiwi injury blow

SALTIRES officials were dealt a blow last night when the man that they’d lined-up as overseas professional pulled out through injury.

Kiwi Kieran Neoma-Barnett was due to make his debut in Sunday’s YB40 clash with Essex in Edinburgh. The deal was done after the player signed as pro for CSL Eastern Premier outfit SMRH.

However, Neoma-Barnett, a hard-hitting all-rounder and captain of Central Districts, could be out for six weeks after tearing a calf muscle.

SMRH president Bert Barclay said: “It’s bad news for the club and for the Saltires.

“He is having a scan today and the results of that will determine whether he can join us later.”

Neoma-Barnett’s injury means the Saltires will go with an all-Scottish side as they did in Sunday’s defeat to Hampshire.

Cricket Scotland chief executive Roddy Smith said:
“Kieran was due to play but we’ll be happy to back our home-grown players. With the exception of Preston (Mommsen) and Matt (Machan) the entire squad on duty at Hampshire came through our system.

“That offers real encouragement especially since they gave a good account of themselves against the reigning champions.”