Five-time champions Southampton Rangers will open the defence of their Belco Cup crown against Police while 2007 runners-up Social Club will face Cleveland County in the other semi-final of this year's competition to be staged May 16-17 at Somerset Cricket Club and Lords.

Last year saw Rangers win an unprecedented fourth straight Belco Cup after they squeaked past five-time winners St. George's by two runs in a nailbiter at Lords.

To commemorate that remarkable achievement, competition sponsors Bermuda Electric Light Company awarded the cup to Rangers for keeps.

"After winning five times, it was only right to award Southampton Rangers the BELCO Cup last year. We have a brand new cup for this year's winning team," commented Andrew Parsons, BELCO senior vice-president.

Annually, Bermuda Cricket Board (BCB), BELCO and St. David's County Cricket Club donate proceeds from the final to charity.

For the second straight year 'No Child Goes Without', will be the beneficiary from gate receipts, proceeds from the sale of children's T-shirts as well as any additional donations fans might make during this year's competition involving the top four finishers in the Premier Division from last season.

President of Bermuda Cricket Umpires Association, Wali Manders, has confirmed that all umpires officiating in this year's event have agreed to donate their fee to 'No Child Goes Without', who provide free lunches and school supplies to needy students.

"We are pleased to once again support the worthy cause of 'No Child Goes Without' as we value tremendously their effort in helping to develop Bermuda's youth," said Parsons. "It is my hope that this year's BELCO Cup is just as enjoyable and successful as it has been the past six years."

BCB president Reggie Pearman echoed the senior BELCO executive's sentiments.

"The BELCO Cup continues to grow in popularity and is a major part of Bermuda's domestic season. Last year the tournament had a record turnout at Lords and I hope to see the same this year," he said.

"Once again the Board and BELCO are working together to raise money in support of the deserving cause, 'No Child Goes Without'. As per usual, the Board will donate the proceeds from the gate."

Rangers will lock horns with Police at Somerset Cricket Club while Cleveland will do battle with Social Club at Lords on May 16, with the eventual winners to contest the final to be held at the same venue the next day.