Coetzer named Scotland captain

Kyle Coetzer, the Northamptonshire opener, has been named as Scotland's new captain, after Gordon Drummond stepped down last week. His first match in charge will come on Friday, when Scotland take on Pakistan in the first of two ODIs.

Coetzer, 29, has represented Scotland since Under-15s level, captained the side at the Under-19 World Cup in 2004 and was their leading run-scorer at the 2009 World Twenty20. Although he has not been in good form for Northants, with 109 runs in eight innings this season, he recorded his maiden ODI century against Afghanistan in March and averages 49.45 in the format.

He will lead the side in all formats, with Preston Mommsen appointed vice-captain. Mommsen will take over captaincy duties during the YB40 and whenever Coetzer is retained by Northamptonshire.

"This is a massive year for Scottish cricket, and personally a huge honour to captain my country," Coetzer said. "I will be trying my very best to help Cricket Scotland continue to move forward in world cricket."

Scotland will host Pakistan in two matches in Edinburgh over the weekend, as part of Pakistan's preparations for the Champions Trophy, which starts next month. Cricket Scotland will announce their squad on Wednesday.