Windwards to mix youth with experience

Two newcomers have been named in the Windward Islands 13-man squad for their opening match of the 2004 Carib Beer Series. Craig Emmanuel, the St Lucian opening batsman, along with Lindon James, the Grenadines wicketkeeper.

The remainder of the squad, which will be captained by the former Test legspinner Rawl Lewis, consisted of experienced players. Julian Jack, chairman of selectors, said that the selection of the two new players was "a way of mixing youth with experience." Jack said: "We believe in doing this, it will help to build a Windwards team that can perform so that we all can feel very proud."

Apart from Lewis, the other players in the squad with international experience are Devon Smith, Junior Murray and Cameron Cuffy. Ian Allen, the former West Indies fast bowler, has been appointed coach.

Windwards, who have languished in the bottom half of the standings for most of the last decade, play Jamaica in the opening match at the Beausejour Stadium in St Lucia, starting on January 9.

Squad Rawl Lewis (capt), Devon Smith, Rommel Currency, Craig Emmanuel, Junior Murray (wkt), Lindon James, Olanzo Jackson, Darren Sammy, Fernix Thomas, Kenroy Peters, Deighton Butler Cameron Cuffy, Shane Shillingford.