GEORGE Worker says his call-up for the Saltires marks a new high point in his career, writes David Kelso.

The big-hitting New Zealander will make his debut against Northamptonshire Steelbacks tomorrow at the Citylets Grange in the second phase of the Clydesdale Bank40 campaign, having received a summons from the selectors last night.

The coach Peter Steindl brought the SMRH professional into his plans after Luke Butterworth, the original summer signing, flew home to Australia for national squad training.

The talented youngster, who starred in the Under-19 World Cup, said: “This is a tremendous opportunity to play at a higher level. I was told a few weeks ago after the international trial game at Uddingston that there was a chance of me being involved in the Scotland set-up. I managed to score a century in that match and I am delighted that things have worked out this way.”

Worker, who will also fill the role of mid-innings bowler, went on: “My aim is to score more runs for the Saltires, and keep things tight with the ball. The most important thing is for the team to earn their first victory in this season’s competition; I would be thrilled to play a part in that.”

Worker, will also figure in Monday’s tussle with Warwickshire, also in Edinburgh. The 20-year-old has scored 1000 runs and taken 32 wickets in first-class appearances for Central Districts. The Scots are further boosted by the inclusion of Kyle Coetzer, having struck a loan agreement with Durham.

Captain Gordon Drummond stated: “After the win against Ireland on Tuesday, we will be looking to build on the momentum. The Sri Lanka game the following day was a tough experience but one the squad benefited from greatly. In the wake of narrow defeats by Northamptonshire and Warwickshire in the away games, we will be looking to turn the small margins in our favour, especially with the home advantage.”

Scotland’s remaining are against Leicestershire and Hampshire at Aberdeen in August and they finish against Hampshire at the Rose Bowl.

Squad Gordon Drummond (capt), Fraser Watts, Preston Mommsen (all Carlton), Kyle Coetzer (Durham), Josh Davey (Middlesex), Neil MacCallum, Gregor Maiden (Grange), George Worker (SMRH), Majid Haq (Clydesdale), Gordon Goudie (Stoneywood Dyce), Calum MacLeod (Uddingston), Richie Berrington (Greenock), Safyaan Sharif (Dunfermline)