Dawood back for Cheshire cup bid

Jun 30 2007 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Daily Post

FORMER Yorkshire and Glamorgan wicketkeeper/batsman Ismail Dawood returns to an unbeaten Cheshire side tomorrow at Chester Boughton Hall as they try and book their place in this year’s Knockout Trophy final at Lord’s.

Dawood was absent for Cheshire’s fine seven-wicket victory away to Berkshire in Minor Counties Championship at Finchampstead on Tuesday because of work commitments.

But the former first-class ace returns to the fold as Cheshire lock horns with Devon for their eagerly-anticipated 50-over semi-final clash.

Cheshire have already beaten Devon this season, impressive nine-wicket winners in the Championship at Chester.

However, with a dream final at the ‘home of cricket’ just one win away, no wonder Cheshire have selected arguably their strongest side so far this season.

Dawood is joined by experienced all-rounder Jason Whittaker, also back in the frame after work commitments saw him miss both of the Championship matches.

Hyde spinner Daniel Berry is the only player to drop out of the side which beat Berkshire, with Oulton Park seamer Guy Emmett recalled as extra bowling cover.

Cheshire’s 13-man squad: Andy Hall, Matthew Dawson (Bramhall); Danny Leech, Chris Bassano, Ben Spendlove, Nathan Dumelow, Guy Emmett (Oulton Park); James Duffy, Danny Woods (Hyde); Adam Syddall (Bowdon); Chris Finegan (Neston); Ismail Dawood (Urmston); Jason Whittaker (Wishaw). 12th man: Chris Davies (Oxton). Scorer: Janet Herbert.