Scotland Confirms 15-Man Squad for T20 World Cup Opener Against West Indies

Scotland on Monday announced a 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, stepping into the tournament following Bangladesh’s removal from the competition. The global event is scheduled to begin on February 7 and will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, marking a major opportunity for the European side on the world stage.

Scotland was added to the tournament after the International Cricket Council replaced Bangladesh, following the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s refusal to send its team to India, citing security concerns. The decision sparked widespread debate within the cricketing community, but it opened the door for Scotland, who have featured in six of the nine previous editions of the T20 World Cup, to return to the marquee event.

The squad will be led by experienced all-rounder Richie Berrington, with a mix of seasoned campaigners and emerging talent selected to handle subcontinent conditions. In addition to the main squad, Scotland has named two travelling reserves and three non-travelling reserves to ensure adequate cover throughout the tournament.

Also Read: Zimbabwe Strengthen Bowling With Courtney Walsh as Consultant for ICC T20 World Cup 2026

Cricket Scotland’s Head of Performance, Steve Snell, expressed confidence in the squad’s balance and readiness. He said the selection had been made with Indian conditions in mind and highlighted the inclusion of young fast bowler Zainullah Ihsan and Oli Davidson as rewards for their recent performances and work ethic. Snell added that the players are eager to test themselves against top international opposition.

Scotland has been placed in Group C, where they will face England, Italy, Nepal, and the West Indies. Their campaign will begin on February 7 with an opening match against the West Indies at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, a venue known for its history and challenging atmosphere.

The selected squad includes Richie Berrington (captain), Tom Bruce, Matthew Cross, Bradley Currie, Oliver Davidson, Chris Greaves, Zainullah Ihsan, Michael Jones, Michael Leask, Finlay McCreath, Brandon McMullen, George Munsey, Safyaan Sharif, Mark Watt, and Bradley Wheal. Jasper Davidson and Jack Jarvis have been named as travelling reserves, while Mackenzie Jones, Chris McBride, and Charlie Tear are non-travelling reserves.

Also Read: “Security Threat Will Increase”: ICC Letter Fuels Bangladesh’s Refusal to Play in India