North nab McLeod in border raid

NORTHUMBERLAND have strengthened their squad with the capture of Scottish international all-rounder Calum McLeod,

The 28-year-old former Warwickshire and Durham player, however, is unavailable for today’s opener at Cambridgeshire.

It is the first of four group games in the Unicorns MCCA Trophy for North, led by Jacques du Toit.

The hard-hitting South African will again be Northumberland’s senior professional but McLeod will play when available.

“McLeod is a great addition,” said manager Stuart Tiffin. “He’s a fabulous player and is keen to play for Northumberland.

“He has commitments with Scotland and his club South North, but will certainly add to our side when he does play.”

McLeod, who has scored four one-day centuries for Scotland, cannot play at Saffron Walden today as his registration has yet to be completed.

“We’ve got a number of players who are unavail- able,” added Tiffin. “But it’s still a strong and well-balanced side.

“In limited overs cricket, it’s all about performing on the day and with only four group games, it’s important we hit the ground running.”

Tynemouth pair Matty Brown and Sam Dinning make their county debut, North at home to Cumberland next weekend in their second group game.

They failed to progress from the qualifying stage last year in the MCCA Trophy but were beaten finalists in 2016.

In championship cricket, Northumberland were pipped at the post in Minor Counties East Division by Lincolnshire on run-rate.

“We were unbeaten in our six games, five of them wins, and it was harsh to miss out on the title after finishing level at the top on points.

“The aim is to do well in both forms this summer – and to get off to a winning start today at Cambridgeshire.”