Winning ICC Cup would seal cricket revival

Grange wicketkeeper Simon Smith is convinced victory over Afghanistan in next week's Intercontinental Cup Final at the Dubai Stadium will set the seal on a major Scottish cricket revival.

The Scots had an indifferent 2010 campaign against English counties but Smith, whose eight first-class matches have yielded 23 catches and a stumping, says hopes are high that the Intercontinental Cup can be regained in a five-day fixture starting next Thursday.

"Recent results against the counties have not been particularly brilliant but we are improving and bringing back the trophy would provide proof that we are coming through a transitional period," said Smith before flying out with a squad that has a strong Edinburgh involvement.

Also included are Grange colleagues Gregor Maiden and Neil McCallum while skipper Gordon Drummond represents Carlton alongside Fraser Watts, Ross Lyons and Preston Mommsen with Stuart Chalmers and Ryan Flannigan of Watsonians.