We Can Take Australia – Scotland

Scotland coach and Aussie ex-pat Peter Drinnan said his side’s recent run of success meant it can challenge and even beat the two-time defending champions when the teams meet in St Kitts on March 14.

“If we can take early wickets, which I’m sure we can with the way we’ve been bowling, we might set a few nerves jangling and cause the likes of Australia and South Africa a few problems,” Drinnen said.

Drinnen indicated that the positive approach taken in the early overs by the established sides may provide an opening for the less experienced nations. “Teams are going out and giving it the gun really early in their innings and setting targets of 300. But you run the risk of losing early wickets”.

“In the one-day game anything can happen and if we get it together we are going to be very dangerous even against Australia. We have a game plan and hopefully we can stick to it”.

Drinnen praised his side’s preparation and commitment ahead of Scotland’s first World Cup appearance since 1999. “Our preparation couldn’t have gone much better and I’m really happy with what we’ve got going on”. The coach played down his own role in getting Scotland to the World Cup. “I’m only a facilitator and put things in place for the team to try and help them win matches but their effort and commitment will be pivotal.”

Drinnen took over as Scotland coach thirteen months ago. His side qualified for the World Cup by reaching the final of the recent World Cricket League.

Whilst acknowledging his side will be massive underdogs, Drinnen refused to rule out causing a surprise in one of the toughest groups in the World Cup. “We don’t fear anyone at this World Cup – the last month’s fixtures in one-day cricket all over the world have been interesting to say the least and we won’t be losing any sleep over playing the world champions”, he said.