Queripel called up to island squad

STEPHEN QUERIPEL has been called up to the island squad. The 25-year-old Optimists swing bowler has stepped into the hole left by Andre van Rooyen, as it seems that the South African bowler, who is currently at home in Pretoria, will not return to these shores.

It is also unclear at the moment as to whether fellow South African Divan van den Heever will be eligible for Guernsey's ICC matches in the summer.

Island manager Dave Hearse believes that Queripel, who is captaining his club in this year's Barclays Evening League, deserves his place in the 18-man squad in his own right.

'Steve has a proven track record,' he said.

'He can bowl at what probably can be best described as medium pace and he can swing it either way. The captain knows he will put it there on the spot as he's got good discipline.

'He's going to benefit from the fitness being with the squad and that goes for the summer training as well.'

Queripel with his nagging line and length is particularly effective when the keeper stands up to the stumps to restrict the batsman's options as it then becomes more of a risk to come down the wicket.

This style of bowling is becoming more popular in 50-over cricket, with the likes of Sri Lanka's opening bowler, Chaminda Vaas, now bowling with the keeper standing up as it is recognised as a good way to limit the number of runs scored off the bat.

'Obviously I'm pleased to be asked,' said Queripel.

'I had a reasonably good afternoon league last year. It's nice to be asked and hopefully I'll get to contribute to the set-up.'