Steve Liburd

A lot is expected of Steve Liburd. While his entry into first-class cricket has not been as "Breezy" as his nickname, he is a product of the West Indies development programme. He has impressed at each age-group level from West Indies Under-15 to the Academy. In 2000, he was vice-captain of the West Indies Under-15 team that won the Cost Cutter U15 World Cup Challenge where he hit the winning run.

His leadership qualities and a penchant for taking on responsibilities have seen him led almost every cricket team on which he has played. He made his first class debut with the Leeward Islands in 2006. If his performance to date is any indication, then it may not be long before he extends his leadership role into this fold. With the minimum of ease, control and a maturity beyond his experience he crafted an unbeaten 95 runs in only his second match, while the rest of his team capitulated.

His physique portrays that of a fast bowler for which, until recently, he was better known. His medium-fast pace bowling is genuine and if taken seriously, Steve can become a very effective all-rounder. However, the flat and unresponsive pitches in the West Indies have influenced his bias towards batting. Meanwhile, he does a tidy job as a part-time wicketkeeper, especially to the spinners while his off-break bowling generates appreciable spin and bounce from his six-foot-plus frame and gigantic palms. As a closer catcher, very few can match his brilliance. He often fields at second slip where his catching is as safe as any central bank's vault! Colin Cannonier