Smith calls for Outerbridge to replace Hemp

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Former star cricketer Clay Smith has renewed calls for Stephen Outerbridge to be appointed as Bermuda’s captain.

He firmly believes Outerbridge has the pedigree to lead the Island on the world stage and has urged Bermuda Cricket Board (BCB) to replace current captain David Hemp with the Bailey’s Bay stalwart ahead of next year’s Pepsi ICC World Cricket League Division Three Tournament to be held on local soil.

“I encourage and urge the selectors and executives of Bermuda Cricket Board to do the right thing for Bermuda cricket and announce Stephen Outerbridge captain,” he wrote in his weekly column. “There is no secret that I am a big fan of Stephen Outerbridge simply because he possesses the passion and love for the game that is needed for us to flourish and be successful.

“His drive for success will motivate others to drive towards that benchmark. His commitment to work with those at Bailey’s Bay that share his desire for success has proven that team unity, common goals, hard work, and dedication, and respect for each player’s strengths and weaknesses goes further than just working with the best talent. The players at Bailey’s Bay respect their leader and trust him wholeheartedly, which makes a tremendous difference when in the heat of a battle.”

Earlier this year Hemp’s captaincy came under intense scrutiny from some of his teammates who object to having to prepare for competition in the absence of their captain who resides in the UK. Disgruntled team members also expressed a desire to be led by someone they can relate to on a more personal level.

Hemp succeeded Irving Romaine as Bermuda captain in August 2009 but has enjoyed very little success during his watch.

Others that have called for Hemp, who was born in Bermuda, to be replaced as senior national captain include former top all rounder Corey Hill.

“The players are not saying they don’t want Mr Hemp to be a part of the national set up, what they are simply saying is they need a hands-on captain,” he said in a previous interview. “Captains and players of any team need dialogue on a regular basis and that is not possible because of his geographical location.

“I’m sure if Mr Hemp was located here on the Island then maybe we wouldn’t be having this discussion.”

Former BCB vice-president Gary Fray disagrees with both Smith and Hill, insisting that Hemp is the right man for the job.

“At this present time I think Hemp is the man to lead us with the experience he has,” said the elder brother of BCB president Lloyd Fray in a previous interview. “The game today is very tactical and you really have to know what you are doing and I think Hemp has that experience and knowledge that hopefully he will pass on to a local, providing they are up to par.”

See Page 24 for full column

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