Scotland Begin T20 World Cup Preparations as Head Coach Announces Support Staff
Backroom team finalised as Scotland gear up for global tournament after late confirmation
New Delhi: Scotland have moved swiftly to finalise their coaching and support staff for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in India, with head coach Owen Dawkins confirming a multi-skilled backroom team despite the short preparation window.
Scotland’s inclusion in the marquee event came amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding the tournament, leaving the side with limited time to assemble its management group. Dawkins, who took charge in December 2025 alongside assistant coach Gordon Drummond, will be supported by Moneeb Iqbal, Paul Tweddle and Zac Bess during the competition.
Expressing satisfaction with the setup, Dawkins said the objective was to bring together professionals with varied expertise who could strengthen the team environment.
He emphasised that both Iqbal and Tweddle add significant value. Iqbal, a former Scotland international, has familiarity with much of the squad after working with them in recent years, including at the previous T20 World Cup. Tweddle, meanwhile, arrives with notable county experience from Somerset and is expected to oversee fielding duties during the campaign.
The head coach also lauded the support staff for adapting quickly after Scotland received their tournament invitation only 10 days ago, noting that such flexibility would be crucial to the team’s success. He credited Head of Performance Steve Snell for efficiently structuring the staff at short notice.
The extended support unit includes Dr Raj McRea-Routray as team doctor, Gary Metcalfe as physiotherapist, and Fiona Rae as team manager. Bess will handle strength and conditioning responsibilities, drawing on his experience with Nottinghamshire, Worcestershire and franchise side Trent Rockets.
Iqbal will reprise his role as spin coach for a second successive Men’s T20 World Cup, while Tweddle brings a winning pedigree, having been part of Somerset’s T20 Blast triumphs in 2023 and 2025 and previously working with the England Lions.
With the coaching framework now in place, Scotland will look to make the most of the opportunity as they prepare for the global tournament.
