Former Bermuda Cricket Board president El James has thrown his support behind veteran batsman Charlie Marshall who is seeking to rejoin the national cricket team.

James yesterday applauded Marshall for taking accountability for past actions and for also demonstrating a “burning desire” to represent his country on the international front again.

“If Charlie has been big enough and mature enough to write a letter to the Board, then I think he should be considered,” said James. “This is a senior team and it’s all about maturity in a senior team.

“That’s what it is all about now, not individuals but the country and I’m really glad to hear that Charlie has written that letter. By sending a letter he’s realised that it’s not about him anymore but more about the country. And that’s what he’s saying in the letter . . . it’s about national pride and not about individual pride. Let’s put it all aside and move on.

“Obviously whatever has happened, not only is he remorseful for it but he also has a burning desire to help Bermuda perform at their very best at the next World Cup.”

Marshall was jettisoned from the national programme in June of 2005 following a quarrel during a practice session at the National Sports Centre with national team skipper Clay Smith.

James continued: “How long do we punish an individual? We can’t go on banning a man for life because he’s had an indifference with one or two individuals. I think he’s been banished for nearly two years now.

“Surely he’s been out of the fold for a long time and I just think it’s time for Bermuda and everyone to open their arms and welcome this performing Bermudian back into the fold.”

Last season saw Marshall top the Premier Division scoring in limited overs, the veteran left handed batsman scoring at 55.67 runs per innings.

“Judging by his performance, not only for the season but also Cup Match, Charlie probably could be a great asset to Bermuda. He was probably the most consistent individual during the last season and so he deserves a chance,” James added.

“I guess one would argue about those already in the squad that he had problems with. But if Charlie is mature enough to put his differences aside . . . then I’m certain one or two individuals within the squad should also be mature enough — in the best interests of the team and the country — to put their differences aside as well.”

And in terms of Marshall’s age (45), James insisted: “I don’t think age is a problem at this point because he has shown that he can perform with the best and I therefore say he deserves an opportunity like all others.

“I think he can be a great asset in that early or middle order or wherever they decide to use him.

“It’s pleasing to see that there would be more senior experience especially with some of the younger folks coming in now who are threatening to earn a place like Malachi Jones who can take the new ball and also bat anywhere down the line.

“He’s (Jones) promising and he’s the future of Bermuda and that’s what we’re looking for. I believe he could earn a spot not only based on performance but also the fact he’s got a lot of years to offer. Then there’s Rodney (Trott), OJ (Pitcher), and Delyone (Borden).

“It’s also great to see Hemp (David) back in the side after his hectic season in the UK. I think he’s also going to be a great asset to the team. I think Marshall and Hemp would give the team a good blend of experience and youth that would serve Bermuda well.”

Marshall also received the backing of arguably the Island’s best wicketkeeper of all time, Dennis Wainwright sr.

“If he’s asked for another chance and is prepared to give it his all, I don’t see any reason why he shouldn’t be given a chance,” Wainwright told The Royal Gazette.<$>

“He can be in the training squad and if he proves that he’s capable, then you have more strength in the batting which is badly needed.”

North Village Community Club (NVCC) president Shervin Dill also endorsed Cup Match’s all-time leading run-getter.

“I would be happy and fully endorse reconsideration for Charlie in the national team because he still has a lot to offer. I think his expertise, knowledge and leadership could be well utilised by the national team, and he has total support from me,” Dill said.

“Charlie has shown his leadership qualities all of the years he’s been out there from junior straight through to now. And we’ve seen the difference he’s made at Social Club.”

In only three years, Marshall, in the capacity as player/coach, has transformed Social Club into genuine top contenders. The club finished runners-up to champions Southampton Rangers in the Premier Division limited overs league and reached the semi-finals of the KO Cup competition last season.

“Charlie can take a team from zero to one hundred and he’s a very positive influence on the rest of his team-mates — both on and off the field,” Dill continued.

“He is still capable and so age is insignificant to me because he can still deliver. And as long as he’s capable I think he should be given consideration.

“I’m a Somerset supporter but I hold Charlie in high regard. Every Cup Match he is very entertaining and always a threat. He’s entertained us for many years and I think he deserves reconsideration in that national team because he can deliver on the international stage.”