finalise their quest for a spot in the 1996 World Cup, according to team captain Albert Steede.

A contingent of 16 players depart on Saturday along with tour manager Clarence Tucker and assistant manager McDonald Swan and Steede was chomping at the bit as the time dwindled toward his first foray into a major competition as skipper.

"It's time for us to go out and do the job,'' said Steede, whose team require a top three placing in the 20 nation tournament. "I feel we're ready. There aren't any major concerns, it's just a matter of fine tuning certain little wrinkles.'' Asked if he was feeling nervous, Steede responded: "No butterflies. Right now I'm looking at it as just another cricket game...with a little more at stake.

"I'll probably be a little nervous when we get there, but I have to try to convert that into performance, which means (making) runs (and winning).'' Their initial test comes February 13, when they face West Africa in the first round, but a few practice matches -- an estimated four or five, possibly against combined or club teams -- are scheduled during the interim period.

Much of the early free time will be needed for the locals to become acclimatised to the high altitude in Kenya, which is situated 5,000 feet above sea level.

"We'll have to deal with the light air and learn to adapt our breathing, so some time will have to be devoted to cardiovascular work-outs,'' continued Steede.

"The heat shouldn't be a problem, because as Bermudians we're used to that.'' A major question arising since the recent tour to Jamaica has been who will open the innings, whether it be the specialist tandem of Allen Richardson and Dexter Smith or an alternative duo.

Steede registered tour high knocks of 109 (versus Melbourne Cricket Club) and 110 (versus Lucas Cricket Club) as an opener after first choice number one, Wendell Smith, was felled by a knee injury and it has been suggested that he should continue in the role in Kenya.

The 25-year-old has in the past eschewed a position at the head of the order, batting most of his career at number three.

However, yesterday he indicated that opening was a distinct possibility.

"More than likely I will open,'' said Steede. "It's not a case of preference, but what's best for the team.

"It (my opening the innings) gives us another option.'' In comparison Smith recorded scores of 45 (versus Lucas), 21 (versus Jamaica) and 0 (versus Melbourne) beginning the innings, while Richardson had had a duck in the first match versus Jamaica, 11 not out (abandoned match versus Kensington) and 16 in the match versus Jamaica).

Steede also hailed the addition of Quinton Burch to replace Smith as a good move, as he said that the former brought "added strength in the bowling department, as well as other intangibles''.

"He bowled very well in Jamaica and while he's not fast, he's very accurate.

"He's a work-horse and the enthusiasm and work ethic he brings seems to have rubbed off on the others.'' Lately players have been struggling to get in much needed practice in the nets because of the foul weather, but Steede expressed pleasure at their commitment, with many said to be taking time out during lunch hours to toss down or bat a few overs.

ALBERT STEEDE -- A lot of responsibility will be on his shoulders when he leads Bermuda in his first ICC Trophy in Kenya next month.