Neill is named in the Scotland squad for first Oman tour

Adrian Neill has been named in the Scotland squad for their firstever tour to Oman next month.

The former Aberdeenshire paceman has been called up after impressing for Scotland A and in winter training and features among the 14 players who will take on Ireland, the Netherlands and Oman.

The tall fast bowler, who started out at Nairn, has proved he can trouble any opponents and has earned his advancement into the full set-up.

Acting head coach Toby Bailey said: “It is also fantastic that Calum MacLeod, Safyaan Sharif and Kyle Coetzer have had opportunities to play in T20 leagues around the world, raising the profile of Scottish cricket.

“We are delighted that Adrian has developed so much in the last year with the help of Gloucestershire and Owen Dawkins who will also join the coaching staff for the tour. He knows he has the engine and skills to match his 6ft 8in frame.”

The Scotland party has plenty of experience and will be seeking to build on a series of terrific results last summer, capped by the historic victory over England at The Grange.

Bailey said: “We are looking forward to the challenge of continuing the success in 2018, and the quadrangular tournament and one-day series against Oman represent an ideal opportunity to do this.”

Kyle Coetzer’s men will meet their opponents in a T20 quadrangular tournament, beginning on February 13, before taking on the hosts in a three-match 50-over series.

Other north players in the ranks include Matthew Cross, Craig Wallace and Michael Leask.

Squad: Kyle Coetzer (captain, Highlanders), Richie Berrington (Warriors), Matthew Cross (Warriors), Ally Evans (Knights), Chris Greaves (Highlanders), Michael Leask (Highlanders), Calum MacLeod (Warriors), George Munsey (Knights), Adrian Neill (Gloucestershire), Safyaan Sharif (Highlanders), Ruaidhri Smith (Glamorgan), Hamza Tahir (Warriors), Craig Wallace (Highlanders), Mark Watt (Knights).