ICC World Twenty20 qualifiers, Belfast

Blain bubbling for Scotland

Cricinfo staff

July 26, 2008

John Blain, the Scotland pace bowler, hopes to play a leading role in his side's campaign in the ICC World Twenty20 qualifiers in Belfast. Scotland are seeded third of the six Associate countries who will be vying for a place in the second ICC World Twenty20 in England next year.

"I know I can change the game on any given ball or given over," said Blain. "I have done it in the past and I am confident I can do it again, if required. Twenty20 is an exciting format and the general perception is it is batsman-dominated format, but it's the bowlers who can turn the match on its head.

"However, to make it happen, you should know how to handle pressure, need to be confident of your abilities, have to be aggressive and continue to show variation in your bowling."

Scotland, who are grouped with Ireland and Bermuda, head into the tournament in a positive frame of mind. "We had a couple of excellent results in the Intercontinental Cup where we convincingly beat Bermuda and Canada earlier this month," said Blain. "These victories can only give boost to our morale and confidence. Twenty20 is quick and sharp but confidence is the key as none of the teams have enough experience of this format.

"Every time we step onto the field we go with a positive approach and with a game plan and the four days in Stormont will be no different. We know our strengths and weaknesses and I believe Scotland will qualify for the main event but where we will finish will obviously depend on how we play in these matches."

Scotland have opted for continuity in naming a squad with just three changes from the side that participated in the inaugural World Twenty20 in South Africa last year.

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Players/Umpires

John Blain

Series/Tournaments

ICC World Twenty20 Qualifier

Teams

Scotland