Andy Moles to coach Scotland

Andy Moles: can he take Scotland to the 2007 World Cup? © Getty Images

As exclusively revealed by Cricinfo in November, and subsequently ridiculed by the Kenyan Cricket Association as being "misinformation", Andy Moles has quit Kenya less than a fortnight after returning from his Christmas break. He has been appointed as Scotland's new coach and will take uyp his post from March 1.

Moles has been linked with the vacancy but returned to Kenya from his winter break a fortnight ago and professed his commitment to his existing role. However, the shambolic situation in the country took its toll , and when the offer of a six-month contract came, he took it.

"What I saw in the Scottish team out there, it was a superb unit and 11 guys playing some tremendous cricket for each other," The Scotsman quoted Moles as saying. "When I heard that the job was coming up and Tony wasn't going for it I decided to give it a go and I'm obviously delighted that things have worked out."

He commended Judd on his work, admitting it made his job easier. "I have a real belief that the current squad can move forward and qualify for the World Cup in 2007. But I want us to go to the West Indies to compete and I'll be looking to get an extra 10% out of every one of the players."

Moles's most pressing task is to help Scotland qualify for the 2007 World Cup with a good performance in the upcoming ICC Trophy, from where the top five will receive World Cup berths.

Kenya now face an extremely difficult task to replace Moles. They are virtually bankrupt and with the Kenyan Cricket Association suspended, it is hard to see why anyone would apply for the post until the many issues with the board are resolved. Mudassar Nazar, currently running Kenya's academy, is one likely short-term candidate, as is Mark Lane, who has done excellent work with development in the country.