There are now players in the team young enough to be his offspring, but Kyle Coetzer continues to prove there is still life in the old dog yet. No longer captaining the side or playing T20 cricket, the Aberdonian has instead channelled all his energies into prolonging a one-day Scotland career that began in 2008.
Coetzer turns 39 in April and has reached the “taking it one series at a time” stage of his international career, but it was not hard yesterday to detect the pride and joy he elicited from helping the Saltires finish top of the World Cricket League 2 table and lifting the trophy that came with it.
Not even two defeats in the final round of matches to hosts Nepal could dampen the squad’s enthusiasm, with the Scots having secured top spot earlier in the series by beating Namibia.
Coetzer chipped in with a very handy 46 not out on that occasion, and hopes to remain a part of the group for as long as he can continue to make a telling impact with the bat.
“It’s an achievement,” said the former Durham man of Scotland’s success. “It’s been a long few years with a gap in the middle for obvious reasons [Covid]. But to come out on top and get 50 points is ultimately what we wanted to achieve.
“We’re all proud of what we have done. It’s not come easy – every side are good in their own individual ways and you could see that with the way Nepal played.
“Creating memories is special, but winning trophies with a group of friends is even better. I still see myself giving this group value. I’ve got to make sure my performances are up to the standard they need to be.
“First and foremost for myself, but also playing in this group as a mentor and leader. My role is to score runs and that’s my priority. I just want to leave this team, when the time is right, in a really powerful and positive place.
“But I’ve got to make sure I score runs and do my bit and work hard, like everyone else. Just because of what I’ve done in the past, doesn’t mean I’m afforded any extra opportunities.”
The Netherlands’ reward for winning this tournament last time out was a place in the Super League and regular matches against the world’s leading teams. With that event having been ditched after just one edition, Scotland’s prize instead is a place in this summer’s World Cup qualifier.
“Having known what the Netherlands have been through that would have been nice,” added Coetzer. “Our thought process was making sure we finished top and if anything did change, in terms of the structure, we’d be first in line.
“Instead we have to push and develop as fast as we can for the qualifier because that’s not going to be a walk in the park – that’s going to be a hell of a tournament. But that’s what a good side should do – wherever you go in the world, you’ve got to be able to find the results.”
The recent breakthrough of players like Tom Mackintosh (20), Brandon McMullen (23) and Liam Naylor (21) have helped to breathe fresh life into the Scotland set-up. Coetzer believes it shows there is plenty to be optimistic about.
“It’s really pleasing that some younger players are getting opportunities because that’s the future of the team. Each and every one showed they’re up to the standard. A bit more experience and game time and they’ll be flying the flag for Scotland. Everyone in the squad has a part to play in helping players settle in. Everyone is going to do things slightly differently but we’re here as a group of players and we’re proud of what we’ve achieved and how we’ve behaved, on and off the field. Giving them an opportunity to experience all of that is really important. They’ll grow as players and individuals.”
This tour was also Shane Burger’s last as head coach before he takes up a new post with Somerset.
“He should feel immensely proud of what he’s been able to achieve with this team,” added Coetzer. “He’s been to two World Cups, he’s been to the Super 12, he’s beaten the West Indies, and won every game in the group stage in Oman.
“He’s helped George Munsey get to where he’s got to at the moment – at the top of his game, and he’s also brought in a new captain [Richie Berrington] who’s led this team to a title. He’s covered a lot in a short space of time and he’ll be missed in our environment. He’ll go on to do some special things no doubt.”
Burger could not end his tenure with a win, though, as Nepal completed a terrific week by winning their fourth match of the series.
The hosts won the toss and sent Scotland in to bat as Munsey marked his 30th birthday with another half century (60). Coetzer and Chris McBride both made 22, with Matthew Cross compiling 42 in Scotland’s total of 212. However, a terrific batting display from Nepal captain Rohit Paudel – who made 95 not out from 101 balls – saw the hosts through with two wickets to spare.
