Berrington ‘honoured’ to be given captaincy
RICHIE BERRINGTON feels “incredibly honoured and privileged” after being named as Scotland’s new captain ahead of next month’s home Tri Series involving Namibia and Nepal.
The 35-year-old succeeds long-time skipper Kyle Coetzer, who has stepped down from his leadership role but remains part of the squad.
The decision to appoint Berrington was made following discussions between the coaching team, senior players and Cricket Scotland’s interim head of performance.
He will lead the team for the first time when Clydesdale CC and Ayr CC host Scotland’s games from July 10-17 as part of the ICC Cricket World Cup League 2.
“I feel incredibly honoured and privileged to lead this team and represent my country,” Berrington told Cricket Scotland. “Having come through the Scottish system from a young age, I’m very proud to take on the role of men’s captain.
“We have an extremely skilful and talented group of players and a lot of experience in our squad, but as a group we are always looking to find ways to improve and I’m looking forward to seeing the team continually move forward.
“We’re very much looking forward to what’s ahead: three home series over the next cou
ple of months is a great opportunity for us to keep building on the team’s recent success and we’ll be doing all we can to produce some good results in front of a home crowd.
“We’ve had a fantastic leader in Kyle, who has been a great ambassador for our sport and I have learnt a lot under his leadership. As men’s captain I am aiming to lead through performance, bringing my experience to the role and giving everything I can to help support the team.
“Long term, World Cup qualification is key for us and we are determined to keep pushing towards full member status, while continuing to develop the younger players we have coming through.”
Head coach Shane Burger believes Berrington has the “stature” for the role.
“I have no doubt that Richie will lead the Scottish men’s side with distinction and is the right person for the job,” he said.
“His stature not only in the Scottish game, but world cricket, makes him a fitting appointment. We have a leader in Richie that everyone can be proud of.
“We’re also delighted to have added Matthew Cross as vice-captain, providing a platform for him to shape and mould his leadership abilities.”