When Argentine cricketer Pedro Baron was informed he had been selected to play for the Select XI in the Bermuda Premier League, he was confused yet delighted.

Baron, 22, was picked to play as part of efforts by the Bermuda Cricket Board to grow cricket in the Americas region, with the opportunity to participate coming at an ideal time with Argentina in its off-season and the South American nation having no international assignments coming up this year.

“The board selected me and I couldn't understand at first,’’ Baron said.

“I never thought I would be selected to play in a Bermudian team but that was one of the best news of my life.”

The top-order batter, who is in Bermuda for the first time, has fallen in love with the island’s famed beaches and also wants to use the opportunity to upgrade his cricket skills.

Yesterday, he opened the batting and contributed nine runs to his team’s total of 74, as the Select XI lost by six wickets to Antigua Grassroots Academy.

“It’s my first time in Bermuda and this place is lovely, with beautiful beaches and cricket. What a great combination,’’ he said.

“It wasn't the start to the tournament we wanted but it was nice to get a first experience with my whole team. We didn't bat well but fielding-wise and bowling-wise, we did well.

“I was looking to play every ball, one ball at a time and try to get myself in. I’ve never played in Bermuda and the wickets are different from where I play back home, so I was trying to get myself used to the pitch and hit the ball in the middle.

“I want to have a good experience and I haven’t played this level of cricket on many occasions. I want to raise my level of cricket by playing with great players by my side, hopefully score some runs, field well and be a part of a great team.

“It’s been great working with coach Clay Smith and the other players. They were very welcoming to me and they made sure that I was having a good time and comfortable on the field.

“It’s a privilege and really good for me and my country to come to Bermuda and play some cricket. Being surrounded by such talented players and coaches, it will give me a few ideas and more experience to then take back home.”