- Jersey selectors name the squad for ICC European Division I
- The Island will host the tournament next month
- 12 of the 14 players were involved in last season’s inter-insular win
A WELL-BALANCED group, boasting an abundance of youthful-exuberance yet, at the same time, vast experience of international cricket.
That’s the way head coach Neil MacRae describes his ICC European Division I 14-man Jersey squad, which was revealed this morning.
Rewarding those individuals who guided the Island to a comprehensive six-wicket thrashing of the old enemy in the annual inter-insular clash at Farmer’s Field last September, the coach has reselected 12 of the 13 players involved that day.
Luke Gallichan, who is unavailable for selection due to university commitments, is the only inter-insular squad member not included.
Experienced international cricketer Tom Minty returns to the squad having represented the Island in both World Cricket League tournaments last year, and there’s also a call-up for St Ouen-Springfield’s Ben Rive.
Commenting on his squad, MacRae said: ‘I feel it’s a dynamic and well-balanced side.
‘Twenty20 cricket is a high-energy form of the game and we’ve got a young squad that can produce that.
‘Although we’ve got a young team, we also have lots of experienced players, who know how to play tournament cricket.
‘The young guys will bring excitement to the squad but we need our experienced players, who are at the peak of their powers, to set the tone.’
‘I feel we’ve got a lot of all-rounders in this team which is a real luxury … it gives us great options to our bowling attack.’
Today’s announcement signals the first occasion that right-arm pace bowler Rive has been included in a senior Jersey squad – and MacRae hopes the 20-year-old can be a valuable asset.
‘Ben has forced his way into the team,’ added the head coach, who has previously stated his desire to win May’s tournament.
‘He performed well towards the end of last season and has trained hard through the winter.
‘He gives us a different dimension with the ball so should be a good addition to the squad.’
The Islanders will travel to the Netherlands later this month, before hosting Kent County on the first weekend in May as they prepare for the international tournament.
ICC European Division I runs from 9-13 May in Jersey.
The winning team will secure a place at the 2015 ICC World Twenty20 Qualifier in Ireland and Scotland in July.
