Gilbert is confident of victory

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 4: Failure has never been an option for Joshua Gilbert.

Therefore it’s not surprising to see the Bermuda Under 19 national cricket team skipper oozing with confidence on the eve of his team’s departure tomorrow for the ICC Americas Division One Championships in Florida.

Bermuda are bidding to secure one of two ICC Under 19 World Cup global qualifying spots that will be up for grabs in Florida next week.

Gilbert has no doubts he and his fellow team–mates will be equal to the task.

“I’m very confident we can win this tournament, if not, come in the top two like we are required to in order to get to the next round for the global qualifier,” the Somerset all-rounder said.

“The players on the team are very mature for their ages, are hard workers, diligent and up for the fight.”

Gilbert takes great pride in being the captain of Bermuda’s Under 19 national team.

“It’s an honour and privilege to lead the Under 19s.

“I have a good group of guys that really listen to me and we have good harmony in the group.”

Improving

In terms of preparation for next week’s round robin tournament, Gilbert said: “We have done above and beyond what we need to do for the tournament.

“We have really worked hard at every training session and the guys have enjoyed it.”

Though confident of success in Florida, Gilbert has warned his fellow team-mates against complacency.

“You can never take anything for granted at this level because each year every team seems to be improving. Argentina, Cayman, Bahamas are now coming hard for us, Canada and the USA.”

Assistant under 19 coach Andre Manders echoed his skipper’s sentiments.

He said: “We cannot underestimate any of the other teams. Even though the USA and Canada are among our strongest opponents, we are looking at each team the same way. We are looking to go in and qualify for the Americas region and then go on to the global and World Cup (qualifiers).”