Western Stars all-rounder Machai Campbell has been challenged to fill the batting and bowling boots of Stefan Kelly for Bermuda at the Under 19 World Cup in Malaysia.

Bermuda's coaching staff have opted for Campbell ahead of fellow standby player Kevon Fubler to replace star turn Kelly who was forced to withdraw from the squad because of school commitments.

Cricket development director, Arnold Manders, described the loss of Kelly as a "severe blow", but backed Campbell to help fill the void.

"The withdrawal of Stefan from the squad was a severe blow," said Manders. "However, education has always come first and we wish him all the best in his final year.

"I'm pleased that Machai has joined the team. He's a talented and extremely dedicated player who has improved in leaps and bounds since joining the programme in 2007.

"The World Cup will be a great experience for him and I'm sure we will be seeing more of him over the next couple of years."

National team coach Gus Logie, who will travel to Malaysia with the Under 19 party, said: "This is a great opportunity for Machai Campbell to be included in the Under 19 squad for the World Cup. I know he will see this as a blessing and grab the opportunity with both hands."

Kelly, who was a member of the senior World Cup squad last year, is currently studying at Oakham School and will be sitting important examinations later this year.

His exam results will have a crucial bearing on whether he secures a place at one of England's top University Centre's of Cricket Excellence (UCCE). He has Durham University and Loughborough University in his sights.

The squad leaves for an intensive training camp at the World Cricket Academy in Mumbai, India, at the end of this month. From there they will travel to Malaysia to compete in the showpiece, which runs from Feb 17 to March 4.

Meanwhile, St.David's Samuel Robinson has been included in acting coach Herbie Bascome's final 13 players for the Stanford 20/20 game against defending champions Guyana on February 10.

Logie added: "Samuel Robinson has worked long and hard for many years and this is his opportunity to show all what he can do on an international stage at the Stanford 20/20 Tournament."

"This is the best squad available for the tournament. The experienced players such as David Hemp, Irving Romaine, Lionel Cann and Dwayne Leverock will put the team in good stead.

"I'm confident that acting coach, Herbie Bascome, will do an excellent job and I wish him and the team all the best for the tournament."

Bermuda's squad for the Stanford 20/20

Irving Romaine (Captain) Bailey's Bay CC

Dwayne Leverock Southampton Rangers S.C.

Lionel Cann St. David's CCC

Traddie Simpson Rangers

David Hemp Glamorgan

Ricardo Brangman Devonshire Recreation Club

Ryan Steede St. Georges CC

Jacobi Robinson Somerset CC

James Celestine Flatts Victoria RC

Garvin Aparicio Police Recreation Club

Ray Butterfield Western Stars SC

McLaren Smith Somerset Bridge RC

Samuel Robinson St. David's CCC