We need to build partnerships to win

Bermuda will look to salvage pride when they host United Arab Emirates (UAE) in their final ICC Intercontinental Shield match at the National Sports Centre (NSC) July 5-8.

The island’s senior national squad has endured a baptism of fire during the competition’s inaugural year, losing heavily to both Uganda and Namibia.

Bermuda lost to the Ugandans by seven wickets at the National Sports Centre last August and earlier this year suffered a bruising innings and 185 run hammering at the hands of hosts Namibia on the African continent.

The Islanders are currently bottom of the four-team group standings with no points to their credit.

With no chance of reaching the final, Bermuda’s cricketers will have little else other than pride to play for when they lock horns with UAE in the four-day Intercontinental Shield next week.

The two sides will also face off in two 50 over matches as well as a one-off Twenty/20 clash at the NSC.

National coach David Moore, who will announce the final squad of players on the eve of the match, has high expectations of his charges.

He said: “Anytime they represent Bermuda they should be up for it and I am expecting them to perform very well. They are progressing well.”

Moore, though, is wary UAE will be a tough proposition.

“They are a bit more experienced than our guys, but we are at home and the enthusiasm in the last few series has been encouraging.
“I think it’s all about building partnerships and batting for long periods of time and then when we are bowling just maintain that enthusiasm in the field and don’t get too frustrated or bored.”  

Among those challenging for places in the team are U.K.–based fast bowler Stefan Kelly, promising seamer Stefan Dill and off spinner Tamauri Tucker.

Star all rounder O.J. Pitcher is a late addition to a training squad of 17, but has been ruled out of the four-day Intercontinental Shield match through school commitments.

Instead, like the resting Janeiro Tucker, the St. David’s islander is expected to make an appearance in the limited over matches with UAE.

Moore has welcomed Pitcher back in the fold with open arms.

He said: “O.J. is obviously a great cricketer and when you get cricketers like that available again it adds to the balance and strength of the side.”

Pitcher, one of the few surviving members of Bermuda’s 2007 World Cup squad, is chomping at the bit to resume his international career among a crop of promising youngsters he rates highly.

He said: “I actually think we have a good crop of young players. I am really impressed with Stefan Dill who is one of the quickest bowlers around and has a lot of talent.

“Terryn Fray is also showing a lot of promise with the bat….. these guys are beginning to show their maturity. This just goes to show the depth the team has and I’m sure these guys will represent the country to the best of their ability.”