Ryan Watson says the time is right for Scotland to have a new captain

Ryan Watson has stepped down as Scotland cricket captain after two years in the role.

His decision follows the Saltires failing to reach the 2011 World Cup in South Africa after a poor campaign.

Watson said: "I have really enjoyed my two years as captain of the side. The time is now right for the team to have a new leader."

Head coach Peter Steindl praised Watson and said he expected him to remain a "top batsman" for his country.

The Scots finished sixth in qualifying, doing just enough to retain their one-day international status.

But their poor display triggered a review of their performance and Watson has now decided to step down as skipper.

The most important thing now is for me to get back to scoring runs for Scotland, and I look forward to working closely with the new captain Ryan Watson

"It is vital we start planning for the future now and give a new captain the opportunity to stamp his own mark on the side," he said.

"The most important thing now is for me to get back to scoring runs for Scotland, and I look forward to working closely with the new captain."

Steindl thanked Watson for his efforts and stressed he would be an important fixture in future Scotland squads.

"Ryan has taken this decision after long discussion with his team-mates, coaches and friends," the head coach said.

"He is an important member of the Scotland squad, now and in the future, and I am sure he will play a major role as one of our top batsmen in the next few years.

"It says a lot for Ryan that he has made the decision to rejoin the ranks, where he will play an invaluable role in supporting any future captain.''

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