Pothas issues challenge to Guernsey hopefuls

STAND up and be counted is the challenge that has been laid down for players wanting a place in Guernsey's inter-insular team.

Following a weather-hit trip to Sussex for the island squad last weekend, national team coach Nic Pothas admitted yesterday that the concluding two rounds of the Swoffers Weekend Championship are now 'very important' form guides ahead of selecting the island team, whose task it will be to try and regain the Marlborough Trophy on 7 September.

He then emphasised that the majority of places remain undecided and players will have to step up to the plate over the coming fortnight to be picked.

'Sometimes it surprises me how guys make themselves unavailable around big games and how they prioritise,' Pothas said.

'What's encouraging is that we have got three teams who can still win the Swoffers Weekend Championship and that makes the next two weeks high-pressure games of cricket.'

Saturday's matches see title contenders Miton Optimal face 2mi Wanderers at the KGV while Cobo Tigers, the other side in the title race, are up against Odey ORs at Port Soif.

The last round is on Sunday 1 September.