Published: Friday, 21st March, 2008 09:00
Brothers put into bat for Scotland
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TWO Gifford brothers have flown to South Africa to represent Scotland at cricket.
Charles and Peter Legget left on Tuesday for the tour that will last just over a fortnight.
Charles will play in the under-20 side and he set aside his packing on Monday to speak to Courier Sport about what he described as “a fantastic opportunity”.
He said: “I am really excited about the prospect of the tour.
“I will play eight games over the two weeks or so that we are away.”
Charles, who is an all-rounder currently plays for Durham University where he is a student. He turned out for Carlton Cricket Club in Edinburgh last summer. Prior to that he was captain of Merchiston School team in the capital.
He has previously played for Scotland at under-19 level, but the trip to South Africa is the farthest he has travelled with his country.
“Although I did play in Australia during my gap year ,” he said.
“That was a great experience for me, playing what was really competitive cricket in a different climate.
“I felt that I was a much improved player having played over there, as you are always learning at this game, especially as an all-rounder.
“Playing in Australia certainly helped my technique in all areas of my game.”
Charles Swan, who is the master in charge of cricket at Merchiston School, has kept a watchful eye over the progress of the two brothers on the cricket pitch. He said: “Charles was captain of the first XI two years ago and is one of the finest bowlers we have produced.
“His action is a model to any aspiring bowler. He is also a very correct right-hand batsmen and is a genuine all-rounder.
“Under his captaincy, the Merchiston 1st XI won 14 out of their 15 school matches. It was a magnificent season.
“He has done very well to be selected for the Carlton CC 1st XI in his first year out of school.”
Younger brother Peter, is currently a pupil at Merchiston and will represent Scotland in South Africa in the under-15 squad.
As well as playing for Merchiston, Peter turns out for Watsonians Cricket Club as well. Like his brother, he is also an all-rounder.
He said: “I am really looking forward to the trip and think it will really benefit me as far as playing is concerned.
“I really love the game and I hope that I can play professionally somewhere, maybe in England.
“I don’t have a favourite professional side, I would play for any of them.”
Mr Swan sees similarities between the two brothers in terms of ability and application.
He said: “Peter too is an outstanding prospect as an under-15 cricketer. He works extremely hard at his game, is very dedicated and is technically very sound. He is a genuine all-rounder.
“Both these boys have a tremendously positive attitude and their inclusion in the various sides to tour South Africa is a great reward for two oustanding sportsmen.”
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