Trinidad and Tobago Red Force training hit by rain

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) — Persistent rain has forced the cancellation of the last two Trinidad and Tobago Red Force trial matches, dealing a blow to the side’s preparation for the Regional Super50 bowling off in seven days.

Impaired conditions due to heavy rain left the outfield at the National Cricket Centre impaired, forcing the abandonment of games scheduled for last Monday and Wednesday.

Dudnath Ramkessoon, cricket operations officer of the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board, said the cancelled games and loss of key players was a setback for the defending one-day champions.

“As you are aware the Red Force, already missing several of its key players because of international commitments and injury, are the defending champions in the Nagico Super50,” Ramkessoon said.


“So it is very important that the players are given the best opportunity to be ready for the tough challenge, especially since we will be playing at home.”
Red Force have been installed in a challenging Group A for the January 7-24 tournament, playing alongside perennial rivals Barbados Pride, Jamaica Scorpions and ICC Americas.

Group B comprises last year’s losing finalists Guyana Jaguars, Combined Campuses and Colleges Marooners, Windward Islands Volcanoes and Leeward Islands Hurricanes.

In the absence of competitive games, Ramkessoon said Red Force would continue to undergo indoor training at the Sir Frank Worrell Development Centre at the NCC.

“Team coach Gus Logie, assisted by Kelvin Williams and other members of the technical staff are committed to getting the squad in fighting form to do us proud when the Super50 bowls off,” the TTCB official said.

Red Force will be led by Jason Mohammed and includes Guyanese imports Narsingh Deonarine and former captain Rayad Emrit.

They will be without the likes of Dwayne Bravo, Lendl Simmons and Samuel Badree who are campaigning in the Australia Big Bash.

Kieron Pollard is recovering from injury.