TONY Judd last night revealed that planning for the Saltires'

The Scotland assistant coach and video analyst has started running the rule over potential opponents at the 16-team event which will be staged in Dubai in March.

Judd says the Saltires have to be on their guard against some dangerous emerging nations: “I’ve already started researching teams and making sure we get our preparation right. The message is that we will have to be at our very best and can take nothing for granted.

“In the T20 format, if you get things slightly wrong you will lose -- no matter who the opposition is. I’ve been looking at teams like Papua New Guinea who people may think would be a soft touch but all their guys play in Australian domestic cricket and they are a formidable unit.”

Judd added: “Remember, only two teams go though out of 16, so it’s not going to be easy but we have guys who are beginning to click in T20 and, hopefully, they will continue to improve.”

ICC officials will announce the seedings and groupings for the qualifiers next month.

 

Tendulkar breaks 15,000-run barrier

SACHIN TENDDULKAR became the first batsman to pass 15,000 Test runs and was eyeing another milestone as India moved to within 124 runs of victory against West Indies in yesterday’s first Test in New Delhi, writes Rob Moir.

Tendulkar was unbeaten on 33 at stumps on day three of the bowler-dominated Test at the Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium.

Rahul Dravid also was unbeaten on 30 as India reached 152 for two in chasing 276 for victory.

Tendulkar will return to the crease today hoping to reach a much-awaited 100th century in international cricket.

  • Shane Warne’s return from retirement has been confirmed after the Melbourne Stars announced the legendary leg-spinner will play for them in the inaugural Big Bash League after signing a one-year deal.