Scots skipper calls for fans’ backing

By Ross McTavish

Published:

BIG HITTER: Scotland captain Ryan Watson wants the fans to come out in force at Mannofield.

SCOTLAND captain Ryan Watson has called on cricket-loving Aberdonians to come out in force and support their national side this week.

Mannofield is the venue for Scotland’s one-day international clashes against Ireland tomorrow and New Zealand the day after.

Watson, 31, admits he is excited by the chance to play in Aberdeen, particularly if there is a healthy crowd for the tri-series clashes.

He said: “Mannofield is a lovely ground so I am really looking forward to playing there.

“There are lots of cricketers in Aberdeen so I hope a good crowd will turn out.

“Cricket is definitely a sport where a big crowd helps lift you.

“There is nothing worse than playing in front of a small crowd.

“I just hope that the weather is fine and we can get some good games played.”

Today’s match between Ireland and New Zealand will be the first one-day international ever played in Aberdeen.

Scotland will then take on the Black Caps knowing they have never previously beaten a Test-playing nation.

New Zealand are one of the leading one-day teams in the world, boasting the likes of Brendon McCullum and Daniel Vettori in their ranks.

But Forfarshire player Watson insists Scotland should not be overawed by their more illustrious opponents.

He said: “New Zealand are a good one day side, probably better than in Test cricket.

“They don’t have a lot of stars, but are a strong team.

“The secret is not to worry about the opposition. You just have to try to play as you do in club cricket.

“It is always a big deal when you come up against a Test-playing nation.

“But it’s not like we haven’t done it before, so we have some experience.”

All three matches start at 10.45am. Tickets are available at the gates, which open at 9am daily.