Van Zyl and Pillinger ones to watch in Cricket Scotland squads – Steve Snell

Players from Eastern Premiership clubs dominate Scottish cricket’s winter training squad, just announced, claiming 12 of the 21 places.

A performance squad containing many up and comings has also been named and there was special mention for Olly Pillinger who has had an outstanding season with Watsonians.

Steve Snell, Cricket Scotland Head of Performance, said: “Our National Training Squad features a strong blend of established international experience and emerging talent, with several players earning recognition for their performances throughout the summer.

“It’s particularly pleasing to see Johnathan Van Zyl (RH Corstorphine) included following some outstanding performances for our ‘A’ team, while Lyle Robertson and Ollie Jones have both impressed since making their international debuts this year. Their inclusion adds further competition and depth to our finger-spin bowling options, which is really encouraging.

“These selections have been made with both our immediate and longer-term ambitions in mind. The ICC Men’s Global Qualifier in February is a significant priority, but we’re also looking ahead to the ICC T20 World Cup Europe Qualifier in the summer of 2027 and ultimately the 2028 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

“There’s a tremendous amount to play for, and the competition for places across the squad is something we actively want to encourage. Under the guidance of (national coach) Owen Dawkins and his coaching team, players will undertake bespoke, individualised and regionalised winter programmes, with a focus on developing all aspects of their game alongside a strong emphasis on physical preparation, fitness and mental wellbeing

“It’s equally exciting to announce the Men’s National Performance Training Squad, which provides an important opportunity to recognise and further develop emerging talent from across Scottish cricket.

“I’m particularly pleased to see Olly Pillinger included following an outstanding season. He’s consistently performed at age-group and club level and, importantly,

demonstrated that same quality when stepping into the ‘A’ team environment towards the end of the summer. It’s a great example of the pathway providing opportunities for talented young players to progress.

“Selection across both squads was incredibly competitive, with some genuinely difficult decisions to make. That reflects the growing depth of talent across Scottish men’s cricket and the number of players pushing for opportunities at the highest level.

“I’m really excited by the potential within both groups and looking forward to seeing how the players continue to develop over the winter.

“Ultimately, we want to create a highly competitive environment where players are continually challenging themselves and each other, driving standards forward and putting Scotland in the strongest possible position for the challenges ahead.”

Squad:

National Men’s Performance Training Squad