'There are no easy games in Twenty20 cricket'

FRIDAY, JULY 15: Progressing to next year’s World Twenty20 global qualifiers in Dubai will be “no walk in the park”.

This according to Bermuda stalwart Lionel Cann who reckons the islanders will have their work cut out for them in Florida next week.

He said: “I don’t think it’s a walk in the park for any team and whoever shows up on the day will qualify.”

Even though teams such as Argentina and Cayman Islands are considered as minnows within the Americas region, Cann said it would be unwise to underestimate their ability — especially in the shorter form of the game.

“If we were going into a four-day match or a 50 over tournament, I would tell you straight off the top that we would definitely qualify.

“I would tell you that it’s in the bag. But with this tournament I can’t tell you that.”

Cann said in order for Bermuda to progress beyond regional World Twenty20 qualifiers, each team member will have to pull their own weight.

“If we don’t show up and play to our best, every single game we could find ourselves on the losing side and be talking about ‘what if?’ There are no easy games in Twenty20 cricket.”

Cann is convinced that Bermuda’s bowling attack is capable of getting the job done in Florida.

“Our attack looks good and George (O’Brien) bowls with a lot variation, which is what’s needed in Twenty20.

“Then we have Rodney (Trott) and Joshua (Gilbert) bowling where the wickets are going to be slow, low and turning.”

Cann is also satisfied with the team’s batting order that has been bolstered by the return of Dean Minors and St David’s teammate OJ Pitcher.

“OJ is going to be vital because it’s not all about slugging in Twenty20 cricket. You also need batsmen to play conventional shots.”

Bermuda’s squad boasts five 2007 World Cup survivors as well as top future prospects Joshua Gilbert, Damali Bell and Kamau Leverock.

“We have a young team and these youngsters are very committed to the task and have worked hard for their place. Now it’s time for them to show what they have got.

“Overall, we have a pretty good team for the Twenty20 — it’s just about the guys showing up to play and not being overwhelmed by what’s going on.

“They have to understand they are representing Bermuda every time they put on that jersey and perform on the day.”