Scotland T20 World Cup squad revealed amid visa issues; Pakistan-origin under radar

Scotland squad for T20 World Cup 2026 revealed [Source: X]

In a major development, Scotland has revealed their squad for the T20 World Cup 2026. After being handed a massive opportunity following Bangladesh’s exit, Scotland have named a strong 15-member squad along with travelling and non-travelling reserves for the mega tournament, set to begin on February 7.

The squad will be led by Richie Berrington, who is set to captain the side and remains Scotland’s most experienced player. Berrington currently leads Scotland in both T20Is and ODIs, having played over 100 T20Is and more than 130 ODIs. He also holds the record for the most T20I runs for Scotland and was appointed full-time captain in 2022.

Richie Berrington to lead 15-member Scotland team

Alongside experienced names such as Matthew Cross, George Munsey, Safyaan Sharif, and Michael Leask, Scotland have also handed a maiden call-up to Afghanistan-born refugee and 19-year-old pacer Zainullah Ihsan.

Ihsan was the centre of attention in the Scotland ‘A’ setup, where he impressed with his performances, earning praise from head of performance Steve Snell for his raw pace and exciting bowling skills.

Scotland T20 World Cup 2026 squad:

Richie Berrington, 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, Bradley Wheal

Travelling reserves: Jasper Davidson, Jack Jarvis
Non-travelling reserves: Mackenzie Jones, Chris McBride, Charlie Tear

The squad, featuring a blend of youth and experience, is set to enter the tournament with just over a week remaining.

Scotland’s test of strength and experience amidst logistical challenges

Since the announcement of Scotland’s inclusion in the mega event, officials have been working around the clock to address challenges related to sponsorship, kit deliveries, and pending visa approvals.

However, setting those concerns aside, Scotland appear to have assembled a well-balanced squad for the T20 World Cup.

Berrington, along with recent addition Tom Bruce, strengthens the middle order. Bruce, a right-handed batter with previous international experience for New Zealand, is known for his aggressive stroke play and can also contribute with part-time off-spin.

Matthew Cross, the vice-captain and wicketkeeper, is one of the most reliable figures in the squad and provides stability at the top of the batting order.

Bradley Currie is a left-arm fast bowler who has impressed in both T20Is and ODIs with his bowling averages and remains a key wicket-taker with the new ball.

Depth and experience intact

Michael Leask adds depth as a dynamic all-rounder, known for his off-spin bowling and powerful hitting in the death overs, making him a crucial finisher and a reliable wicket-taking option alongside Chris Greaves.

George Munsey, meanwhile, is an explosive left-handed opening batter, renowned for his aggressive starts and high strike rate. Safyaan Sharif, who is Pakistan-born, brings vast experience to the side, having taken 113 wickets in 90 ODIs and 85 wickets in 75 T20Is for Scotland.

With a wealth of experience backing them, the Scotland cricket team now looks ready to step into action, with their opening match scheduled against West Indies on February 7, 2026.