cricket testimonial match next month.

St. Clair (Brinky) Tucker, chairman of the testimonial committee, confirmed yesterday that the Trinidadian had agreed to make his first appearance in the annual match.

This year's game will be held at Lord's on Saturday, September 19, starting at 11.00 a.m. "We are extremely proud to have been able to persuade a player of Bishop's ability to come for the event,'' said Tucker. "He is still one of the finest fast bowlers in the world today, and once again the Bermuda public will have the opportunity to see a quality player perform before them.

"Our committee has continued to work hard to get players with Test experience here but this year was particularly tough because not too many were available, particularly those originating from the West Indies.'' Last year former West Indies Test players Joel Garner and Gus Logie flew in for the event and previously the match has attracted Test stars such as Phil DeFreitas of England and Phil Simmons of the West Indies.

The unavailability of players, particularly from the West Indies and England, has been attributed to the involvement of many in the extended English season.

Also a number of Test players from the Caribbean will be representing their separate Islands at the Commonwealth Games in Malaysia.

"It was difficult getting players this time around. We would have liked to have brought in two as we have done most of the time, but it was virtually impossible,'' added Tucker.

Bishop made a brief, low profile visit to Bermuda earlier this year and the possibility of him coming back for the testimonial was mentioned at the time although he was then unable to make a commitment.

The bowler could find himself more involved than previous guest players as plans are underway to have him assist in the preparation of the Bermuda national team for the Red Stripe competition later in the year.

"We really hope that he will have the time to work with the national players.

The genuine pace that he generates would be something that could prepare our players for what lies ahead of them in the Caribbean,'' said Tucker.

Ian Bishop