Cottam to aid Scotland's qualifying bid

Bob Cottam, the former England bowling coach, has agreed to take up the same role with the Scotland squad to help them prepare for the ICC Trophy in Ireland during July, where they must finish in the top five to qualify for the 2007 World Cup.

Cottam, who took over 1000 wickets in his county career with Hampshire and Northamptonshire, and played four Tests for England, will join up with the Scotland squad for their tour of the Midlands. They have matches against Nottinghamshire and Warwickshire as Andy Moles prepares for their final National League season, which starts on May 1 against Durham at the Grange in Edinburgh.

Having missed out on the last World Cup in South Africa, Moles is delighted to have the experience of Cottam onboard for this qualifying campaign. "I have personal experience of working with Bob from my playing days and, having spoken to some bowlers with whom he has worked, it is clear he will be a valuable asset to the Scotland coaching staff," he told the Press Association. "He has worked with many world-class cricketers and his appointment is further proof that Cricket Scotland is doing everything it can to ensure success in the forthcoming World Cup qualifying tournament."

Cottam said that he is exciting by the challenged of helping Scotland: "I am delighted to be renewing acquaintance with Andy and I have already been extremely impressed with the attitude of the players here in the short time I have spent with them. I am looking forward to helping the team meet their objectives over the coming season."