The Scotland cricket squad is getting a boost as they prepare for a crucial Cricket World Cup League 2 series against Nepal and the USA. Sussex seamer Brad Currie and batter Michael English have been called back into the fold, bringing valuable experience to the team.

Currie, 27, missed last month's tour of Namibia due to illness, but his return adds depth to the bowling attack. English, the Ferguslie captain, comes in on the back of a century in his only previous appearance for Scotland—a memorable knock against Namibia in July 2024. That kind of form is exactly what the team needs as they eye a spot at next year's global qualifier for the ICC Men's World Cup.

There's also a fresh face in the squad: 19-year-old Ayr spinner Ollie Jones, who earns his maiden call-up after impressing at the Under-19 World Cup. His inclusion signals a bright future for Scottish cricket. However, Hampshire batter Ali Orr is a notable absence, despite speculation he might be involved. Orr impressed for Scotland A against Jersey last month and hasn't featured in any of Hampshire's four County Championship matches this season, but he joins a significant list of absentees—including Chris McBride and Mackenzie Jones—who are unavailable due to county or work commitments, or personal reasons.

Scotland currently sit second in the CWCL2 standings, just behind the USA. The upcoming matches in Kirtipur, Nepal, will see them face the league leaders and the hosts twice each. It's a high-stakes series, and head coach Owen Dawkins is excited about the challenge.

"It's exciting to have the opportunity to travel to Nepal and play this series against two very strong sides," Dawkins said. "The country is hugely passionate about cricket, and the crowds are always very vocal and fun to play in front of. We're very familiar with our hosts after playing them in Dundee last summer and then facing them at the recent ICC T20 World Cup, which was a fantastic game that we didn't quite come out on the right side of. They are extremely talented, as are the USA team who sit top of the CWCL2 standings, so we know we'll have to play to our best to beat both sides."

With a mix of seasoned campaigners and emerging talent, Scotland will be looking to make their mark. And for fans, this series is a reminder of how exciting the journey to the World Cup can be—perfect inspiration for gearing up with your own cricket kit as the action heats up.