Bascome thrilled to be back as Cup Match captain (Update)

Oronde Bascome says he is thrilled to be back as St George's Cup Match captain after the club confirmed his reappointment today.

Bascome missed last year's 10-wicket defeat to Somerset after suffering a burst appendix while in England, with Lionel Cann taking over leadership duties.

Now fit and healthy once more, the returning batsman — who will also be part of the selection panel — said taking charge of the team again was always on the cards, with the club officials indicating as far back as last year they wanted him to return.

He told the Bermuda Sun: "It’s always a pleasure to be captain for Cup Match – I’m just thrilled to be back playing cricket. I understand what a prestigious event Cup Match is for the whole island and I’m just looking forward to it.

"I'm really, really happy to be back. I know what it means to the people of the country and the people of St George’s, particular."

Meanwhile club president Neil Paynter told the Bermuda Sun that Bascome's return was a big boost to the side in terms of leadership as well as batting capability.

Paynter said: "Oronde was our captain last year but unfortunately could not come home because he was receiving treatment.

"He is our league captain this year and traditionally our league captain skippers our side. It is just a continuation of that.

"It is very important to our side to have him back.

"Although we do focus on Cup Match the league team is still the breeding ground for the side.

"Oronde's return is very significant for us in terms of leadership but also in terms of batting capabilities."

More in Wednesday's Bermuda Sun.