The selection of guest player Malachi Jones by Bailey’s Bay for their Eastern Counties first-round clash with St David’s has sparked controversy at the club.

The experienced all-rounder’s inclusion has been met with fierce opposition since the cup holders announced their team on Wednesday night, but Gus Logie, the Bay coach, refused to be drawn when approached over the matter.

“I am sorry but I prefer to focus on the positive vibes in the squad thus far, and everyone is looking forward to a competitive game,” the former West Indies player and coach told The Royal Gazette.

“The players that Bay invited to training sessions have all equipped themselves with focus, intensity and a willingness to work hard.

“It’s unfortunate we only found room for two in Jones and Tre Manders but we felt it was the best XI for this game with youth, experience and skill sets. We want to allay any fears our supporters have and the players will honour the great traditions of the county cup and fight all the way.”

Jones, who plays league cricket for Warwick, declined to comment.

Weighing in on the controversy was Ricky Hill, the former Bay wicketkeeper-batsman, who said opposition to team selection is not uncommon.

“There is always going to be someone who is not happy with team selection,” he said.

“The selection committee, along with the captain and the coach, have a job to do that’s in the best interest of the club.

“However, if Bay retain the trophy that means they play Flatts and then someone else may get the opportunity to play, and if they win that one they play Cleveland.”

Jones is one of three changes Bay have made to their team from the one that dethroned St David’s at Lord’s last year, with Azende Furbert and Bermuda captain Delray Rawlins coming into the side.

The trio have replaced batsman Coolidge Durham, seamer Jordan Burgess and wicketkeeper Shaquille Outerbridge, who helped Bay put an end to a four-year wait to reclaim the coveted cup last year.

Durham and Burgess have been included as reserves, while Outerbridge has been left out. Manders, the Western Stars captain, is the remaining guest player in Bay’s team.

St David’s will be without key players Chris Douglas and Ricardo Brangman. with both players serving BCB suspensions for committing Level Two offences when showing serious dissent to an umpire’s decision.