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Doug Watson steps down as Scotland men’s head coach after T20 World Cup exit. Cricket Scotland begins search for a new coach ahead of the ICC CWCL2 series in Namibia in March 2026.
Doug Watson steps down as Scotland head coach
Doug Watson has stepped down from his role as Scotland men’s head coach, Cricket Scotland announced on Sunday. This decision follows a review of recent performances and strategic planning concerning future fixtures and budget allocation.
Watson’s departure comes after Scotland failed to qualify for the T20 World Cup, losing to Jersey and Italy in the qualifying tournament. He was initially appointed as interim head coach in March 2023 before the ICC Men’s World Cup Qualifier in Zimbabwe, where he led the team to notable victories against three full member nations.
In July 2023, Watson guided Scotland to victory at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Europe Qualifier and was subsequently appointed as the permanent head coach in early 2024.
“While I’m disappointed to be moving on, I’ll take with me many fond memories of my time with the organisation,” Watson said.
“It has been a pleasure to work with this squad and coaching staff, and I’m proud to leave with the team at the top of the ICC CWCL2 qualifying table. I now look forward to spending more time with my family. I’m honoured to have worked with Cricket Scotland, and I will follow their future progress closely. I wish everyone involved every success moving forward.”
Under Watson’s guidance, Scotland competed strongly at the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in the West Indies and USA, securing wins against Namibia and Oman in a group that included Australia and England. The team narrowly missed advancing to the Super Eight stage.
“We are grateful for Doug’s commitment since joining Cricket Scotland in 2023 and for the positive impact he has had on the team’s performance and culture. However, as we plan for 2026 and beyond, it became clear that a change was needed. I would like to sincerely thank Doug and wish him and his family the very best for the future,” said Trudy Lindblade, Cricket Scotland’s Chief Executive.
The board announced that the recruitment process for a new men’s head coach will begin shortly, with an appointment expected in time for the ICC CWCL2 series in Namibia in March 2026.
“I’d like to thank Doug for all his efforts with the team during his time in charge. He is well-liked by the players, has made a positive impact in many areas, and has enjoyed some memorable moments with the squad during his tenure as head coach.”
“With no fixtures until March 2026 and with Doug being based overseas, it is the right time to ensure that our coaching provision aligns with the needs of the squad and the organisation in the coming year and beyond. We wish Doug all the best for his next steps, and we are thankful for his contributions to Scottish cricket,” said Steve Snell, Cricket Scotland’s Head of Performance.
(With Agency Inputs)
A cricket enthusiast whose dreams of playing for India paved the way for a compelling journey in journalism. With a comprehensive coverage spanning international and domestic cricket across formats, I have had …Read More
A cricket enthusiast whose dreams of playing for India paved the way for a compelling journey in journalism. With a comprehensive coverage spanning international and domestic cricket across formats, I have had … Read More
September 07, 2025, 14:37 IST
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