Janeiro to resume Cup Match captaincy?

FRIDAY, JUNE 3: John Tucker’s appointment to Somerset Cricket Club’s selection committee has heightened speculation that son Janeiro could be re-appointed as the club’s Cup Match captain.

The 2007 World Cup veteran was replaced as captain after losing the coveted showpiece to St George’s at Wellington Oval in 2005.

He was succeeded first by Hassan Durham and then by Jacobi Robinson.

However, there is growing speculation that Somerset’s most prolific Cup Match batsman may be called upon again to lead the challengers into battle at Wellington Oval this year.

When asked would he be willing to regain the leadership role if given the opportunity, the Southampton Rangers’ player/coach replied: “I haven’t thought about it, but I won’t rule anything out.”

Earlier this year Somerset appointed wicketkeeper Jekon Edness as captain of their league team after predecessor Robinson was “relieved of his duties”.

But according to selection committee chairperson Charlotte Simons they have yet to appoint a captain for Cup Match.

She said: “We haven’t confirmed anything for Cup Match yet.”

Simons said her committee is due to meet next week to discuss a number of issues, ranging from the vacant Cup Match captaincy to invitations for players to try out for Somerset this year.

Downplayed

She also downplayed John Tucker’s appointment to her committee that many claim will enhance his son’s chances of being re-appointed as Somerset’s Cup Match captain.

“It’s no big deal. What difference does it make?”

The former Bermuda international, who also captained Somerset in Cup Match like his son, is among several new faces on the challenger’s selection committee this year.

The others are former Somerset Cup Match player Francis Richardson, new coach Ricky Hoyt and league captain Edness.

Gone are former Somerset Cup Match stars Winston Reid, Gladstone (Sad) Brown and Dexter Basden along with last year’s captain Robinson.

Last year’s rain-hit Cup Match in Somerset ended in a tame draw.

Meanwhile, domestic 50 over cricket will take a back seat this weekend to Twenty/20 cricket with double headers to be held at five different venues.

Tomorrow will see Warwick take on Southampton Rangers who will also play Somerset at Southampton Oval.

Sunday’s fixtures at St John’s Field will see Warwick take on Somerset and hosts Western Stars play Somerset Bridge.

Rangers will take on Flatts at Somerset Cricket Club where Willow Cuts will also clash with a Commercial League XI.

Elsewhere at Lords, St David’s host Devonshire while Bailey’s Bay have been pitted with St George’s.

Remaining matches will see Young Men’s Social Club play Cleveland County and PHC do battle with Legtrappers at Wellington Oval.