Tom Cooper added to Netherlands ICC World T20 Squad

Netherlands batsman Tom Cooper has been included in the squad for the upcoming ICC World Twenty20 tournament in the place of Sikander Zulfiqar.

In a press release, the Royal Netherlands Cricket Board confirmed the addition of Cooper and further detailed that Zulfiqar will remain with the squad as a reserve player.

According to the press release, the Australia-born Cooper, who plays for South Australia in the Sheffield Shield, was not available for selection when the squad was initially named earlier this month.

Jeroen Smits, who is the chairman of selectors is confident that the addition of Cooper will benefit the Netherlands squad in the ICC World T20. 

“Tom Cooper was part of the hugely successful 2014 World T20 team that progressed to the Super 10 phase as only Associate Member nation, so the current team will certainly benefit from Cooper’s inclusion and experience,” said Smits.

Netherlands coach, Anton Roux welcomed Cooper to the Netherland’s ICC World T20 squad, stating that his availability will add another dimension to the team.

“Tom’s availability certainly adds some more spice to our team.

“His Dutch cricket family will welcome him back with open arms, and are looking forward to having massive fun playing together with the men in Orange,” said Roux.

Netherlands are currently in Bangalore and are undergoing a training camp at the Karnataka State Cricket Association Three Ovals facility in preparation for the ICC World T20.

Netherlands 2016 WT20 squad:

Peter Borren (capt), Wesley Barresi, Logan van Beek, Mudassar Bukhari, Ben Cooper, Tom Cooper, Timm van der Gugten, Vivian Kingma, Ahsan Malik, Paul van Meekeren, Roelof van der Merwe, Stephan Myburgh, Max O’Dowd, Michael Rippon, Pieter Seelaar.

Reserve player: Sikander Zulfiqar

© Cricket World 2016