I'd play for Scotland again if call came, says bust-up bowler John Blain

He sent his message to national chiefs as he broke his silence on the bitter bust-up with skipper Gavin Hamilton that prompted him to walk out on the squad on the eve of the T20 World Cup in 2009.

Blain - now Yorkshire Academy coach and captain of the county's second XI - accused Hamilton, former captain Ryan Watson and coach Pete Steindl of being tactically naive and woefully under-prepared for the tournament in England.

And the 32-year-old - who has earned more than 100 caps - told how one-time close friend Hamilton told him to "f*** off then" when he voiced his discontent.

The flashpoint came minutes after the Scots had been narrowly beaten by Bangladesh in a warm-up match in Buckinghamshire.

He recalled: "Gavin ordered us over to an area of the field in full view of spectators, media, sponsors and opponents to begin our debrief.

"Gavin gave an emotional and heated talk in full view and earshot of all and sundry, supported by the coach, Steindl. He claimed our disciplines with ball and in the field were poor and were not near the standard they had been that morning at a practice session. But it was clear to see the most vital ingredient missing at that training stint was the natural pressure that competition brings.

"He asked if anyone had anything to add. I spoke up and disagreed, stating what I thought were relevant tactical points that caused our downfall. It was obvious to me that the team and coaching staff had lacked experience and awareness in this form of cricket, especially the use of batting powerplays and I was intent on making my point.

"I was instantly interrupted and talked down by the coach and Ryan.

"My view is that Ryan's input was outdated and lacked substance. His period as captain had finished and he had failed in his attempt to lead the team from the front.

"But what riled me most was that no attempt was made by Gavin to back me up in any way, despite his apparent endorsement for my opinions and thoughts in an earlier phone chat. I felt I had no choice but to leave the team camp.

"I returned to the team hotel in Aylesbury that evening and asked to speak to Gavin about the day's events. When I told him of my intention to depart, his reply was straight to the point: 'Go on, f*** off then'."

Blain then told of his acute upset when Hamilton gave his version of the split to the media, in spite of his own agreement with Scotland manager Euan McIntyre to keep his lips sealed on the matter.

He said: "Crocky (McIntyre] asked me to stay silent and I have kept that promise until now. I only wish he had relayed the same message to the captain."

Looking ahead, Blain stated: "I'd love to play for my country again - if the call comes. I feel I still have a lot to offer - but I can't help but doubt that will actually happen."