Scotland’s Kyle Coetzer retires from T20 Internationals

Legendary Scotland batter Kyle Coetzer has announced his T20I retirement three months ahead of the T20 World Cup in Australia, bringing an end to a career that spanned 14 years. Coetzer, who has led Scotland in 41 T20 Internationals, stepped down as the country’s skipper last month, paving the way for all-rounder Richie Berrington to permanently take over the reins. The 38-year-old, who has 70 T20 International appearances to his name, exits the T20I arena as the second-highest run-getter for Scotland in the country’s history, having amassed 1,495 runs.

“After considered discussions with Cricket Scotland and the head coach, the team would gain more from someone else playing in the upcoming T20 fixtures and the subsequent T20 World Cup. It was a pleasure to take part and lead my country in the previous World Cup and help Scotland qualify for this year.  It was a real driving force for me to continue helping the team in any way that I could,” Coetzer said in an official statement posted on Cricket Scotland’s website.

The right-hander insisted that him stepping away altogether from T20 cricket ‘is best for the direction of the team’ as they look to build on the success of the 2021 T20 World Cup.

“From a personal point of view, I am looking forward to having a bit more time to spend with my family with two young daughters while also focusing on my coaching career and having more time for that. But ultimately, it is about what is best for the direction of the team going forward.”

But despite giving up captaincy and despite quitting T20s altogether, the veteran will continue to feature in 50-over cricket for Scotland. This was confirmed by Toby Bailey, Interim Head of Performance, who congratulated the 38-year-old on a wonderful T20I career.

“Kyle has had an incredible international T20 career. He has helped the team to remarkable achievements including qualifying for multiple World Cups and leading the team to the Super 12s at the ICC 2021 T20 World Cup,” Bailey said.

“His dynamic batting will be missed but will give opportunities to others coming through the system. This was a tough decision for Kyle but one which will benefit the team and the longevity of Kyle’s ODI career.”

Under Coetzer’s captaincy, Scotland made the Super 12 stage of the 2021 T20 World Cup in UAE, where they upset Bangladesh and gave New Zealand a run for their money.