January 30, 2013 at 5:54 p.m.
Cricket: Premier Division
Douglas signs for Willow Cuts
Douglas signs for Willow Cuts
The Bermuda international is the latest big-name player to sign up for the Premier Division newcomers behind fast bowler George O'Brien Jr. and all-rounder Malachi Jones.
Douglas's arrival adds another dimension to Cuts' batting order and also gives the West Enders an optional wicket-keeper and off-break spinner.
Lucrative
Dexter Basden, Cuts' assistant coach, said: "Chris definitely strengthens the batting and we can also use him for his wicket-keeping and spin bowling."
Cuts have raised eyebrows with their lucrative off-season signings, even those of club stalwart Basden. He said: "I was actually surprised a bit myself to see Chris come onboard. I had absolutely nothing to do with it.
"He was influenced by our skipper, Sheroy Fubler, Duente Darrell, Kevon Fubler and Malachi Jones."
With a big buzz around Warren Simmons Field, formerly Royal Naval Field, these days, Basden intends to put retirement plans on the backburner and make cameo appearances next season.
He said: "I'm sure I'll play one or two games just to say that I finished my career playing in the Premier Division.
"It's been some time since we have been in the Premier Division and I'm sure we will fall short in one of those games and I can help make up the numbers."
Basden could get his chance to play in the Western Counties as the likes of Jones, O'Brien and Douglas will not be eligible to play for the next two seasons.
Competition rules stipulate that players must play for their respective clubs for two years before they can participate.
Booster
Basden said: "I'm sure something will materialise.
"But in the meantime I am comfortable sitting on the side and putting all the pieces together to make sure things go right for the captain.
"This is Sheroy's first time playing in the Premier Division so he is going to need a big booster from his father (Rodney Fubler), who is his coach, and myself." Cuts have already commenced pre-season training at their modest facility in Somerset - sessions which, according to Basden, have been well attended.
All-rounder Jones is currently in Africa with the senior national team, while fiery pace bowler O'Brien has showed up at his new club although he has yet to train with his new teammates.
Basden said: "George hasn't physically started training yet but he's been through the gates a few times and attended some of our other functions at the club.
"I guess he's basically feeling the club out."
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