Coetzer wary of threat posed by group favourites

Scotland skipper Kyle Coetzer says his men are prepared for a tough test when they face Holland in Abu Dhabi today.

The Scots’ Desert T20 campaign continues under the floodlights at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium following Saturday’s convincing win over Hong Kong.

Coetzer is wary of the threat posed by the Group B favourites.

He said: “It’s always tough against the Netherlands but always exciting as well. They are a tough group of players with a never-say-die attitude.

“They will be feisty as they always are and we know they are potentially a very dangerous side with the bat so hopefully we can take a few early wickets to put them on the back foot.”

The Scots are likely to go with the same starting 11 that racked-up their second highest T20 international total – 189-3 – against Hong Kong, meaning Somerset all-rounder Michael Leask and Hampshire recruit Chris Sole could again miss out.

“The guys shaped-up really well against Hong Kong and executed their skills pretty much as planned,” added Coetzer.

“Unfortunately we’ll have two very talented guys sitting on the sidelines but their chance will come.”

Victory would see Coetzer’s men book a place in Friday’s semifinal, while defeat would leave them needing victory against Oman who yesterday beat Hong Kong.

Scotland captain Kyle Coetzer.