Dawood back as Cheshire look to Lords

By Neil Goulding (Cheshire CCC press officer 07813 859986)

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

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.

"All the players are looking forward to the match," said skipper Andy Hall. "Devon have named a strong side, but we've beaten this season and know we can beat them again.

"There's a few of us who have played at Lords, but there's also quite a few of the lads who haven't. Either way, it would mean a lot to play there again for all of us."

Cheshire 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.

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