ONE of the Carib girls presents cricket gear to skipper Neil McGarrell in the presence of the team members. (Winston Oudkerk photo) MANAGER of the senior national cricket squad that leaves these shores today has expressed optimism that the players will do their best when they take to the field in their opening Carib Beer Series match against Barbados on Friday.

Manager Carl Moore, said that he hopes the furore from winning the 2003 Red Stripe Bowl will be transformed when the players are called on to successfully represent their country.

“The guys are very enthusiastic and I’m hoping that they can carry on where we left off in the Red Stripe Bowl.”

He further added that there were no injuries ahead of the series.

The players have not had much turf practice since the squad was named. Moore said that one three-day match was held which was affected by the weather, but they have scheduled two practice sessions in Barbados, today and tomorrow, and he is confident that it will boost the mindset of the team.

“We’re not as prepared as we would have liked but with the two sessions we hope the boys will be ready up to a point.”

Meanwhile, captain Neil McGarrell said that he is expecting his team to give of their best both on and off the field.

“The guys have good team spirit and they are pretty fit and confident after the Red Stripe Bowl.”

He said that the lack of practice will have some effect on the team but they will be hoping to bolster their confidence level after the two practice sessions.

“The practice will help because there will be some difficulty with the bounce of the Barbadian pitches, because most of our players are accustomed to the low pitches here.”

McGarrell was speaking at a luncheon held in their honour at the Georgetown Club by beverage giants Ansa McAl yesterday.

The management of the company will also be presenting cricket gear to the team before their departure.