Eastern Counties Cup tomorrow, but the prominent all-rounder has expressed his dismay over his club's decision to omit guest players.

"It marks the first time we will be going into the County without these quality players. I can only hope that their absence will turn out to be a blessing in disguise,'' said Gibbons who arrived home from England on Wednesday night after interrupting player-coaching role with the Birmingham club Halesowen.

He was referring to the absence of players like opening batsman Ricky Hill who hammered a half-century in last year's six-wicket loss to champions St.

David's and fast bowler Terry Burgess, both of whom play with Hamilton Parish.

"I was not pleased when I was informed of the team,'' said the former skipper. "The selectors must put the emphasis on winning and that called for naming the strongest possible team, we can't be worrying about hurting players who happen to be left out.'' Even without these so-called "quality players'' who were overlooked, Gibbons vows to give his usual best and is hopeful that Bailey's Bay will once again prove to be worthwhile opponents.

They fell short last year after scoring 212-8 only to have St. David's respond with 216-6.

Gibbons, who joined Halesowen in June, had previously made arrangements with his club to fly home this month for tomorrow's game and the annual Cup Match.

And he is hoping that his brief absence wouldn't interfere with the progress of the team.

During his short involvement with Halesowen, Gibbons was making more impact with his batting than anything else, recording scores of 89, 88 not out, 83, 79 not out and 73.

His undefeated innings of 88 came recently when he was appearing with the Birmingham League Conference XI against MCC at Worcester's County ground. His performance caught the eye of another club in the area, Smethewick, who are now keen on taking Gibbons on.

"I'm still considering making the move, they have made a pretty good offer,'' he said.

NOEL GIBBONS.