Anthony Foster, Freelance Writer
West Indies players Adam Sanford (left), Omari Banks (right) and other members of the Leeward Islands' cricket team arrive at the Norman Manley International Airport yesterday. The Leeward Islands play Jamaica in the opening Carib Beer Series match at Kensington Park which starts tomorrow. - JUNIOR DOWIE/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
THE SYLVESTER Joseph-led Leeward Islands team touched down at the Norman Manley International Airport yesterday full of confidence ahead of tomorrow's Carib Beer Series opening match against Jamaica at Kensington Park.
Joseph said apart from having a good team, he believes a good start against Jamaica will depend on "if we can put our heads together and do the basics".
Joseph, who was Shivnarine Chanderpaul's deputy on the tour of Sri Lanka earlier this year, said the weather had affected his team's preparations.
"To be honest, yesterday (Tuesday) was the first time we got together ... we had a lot of rain," he said.
JACOBS MISSED
For the first time in many years, the Leeward Islands will enter the regional first-class competition without Ridley Jacobs, who retired earlier this year.
Kerry Jeremy is also missing from the team that arrived yesterday at midday and, according to Joseph, "it's hard for us to be without them".
Two newcomers in all-rounder Steve Liburd and 17-year-old Guyanese-born legspinner Colin Hamer have been included in the squad.
Joseph, Runako Morton, who has been named vice-captain, all-rounder Omari Banks and fast bowler Adam Sanford are the players with Test experience in the 13-man squad.
Squad: Sylvester Joseph, Austin Richards, Shane Jeffers, Runako Morton, Tonito Willett, Wilden Cornwall, Omari Banks, Alderman Lesmond, Carl Simon, Adam Sanford, Gavin Tonge, Steve Liburd and Colin Hamer.
