Specialist batsman Stephen Outerbridge is to undergo a late fitness test to determine whether or not he is fit for Bermuda's opening World Cup qualifying match against United Arab Emirates (UAE) at Potchefstroom University today.

The 25-year old cricketer, who attends University of Wales and Cardiff in the UK, bruised his left hand in a recent practice match and has been on the mend since.

Earlier this week Gus Logie, the Bermuda coach, expressed optimism that Outerbridge would make a full recovery prior to today's crucial Group B match with 1994 ICC Trophy champions UAE.

"We are certain Stephen will be ready for the next game. He may even get in one of two practice sessions before Wednesday," Logie told The Royal Gazette.

However, yesterday Logie seemed less enthusiastic about having one of his key players available for today's match.

"Stephen is not one hundred percent as yet. We have done everything possible to have him ready but will have to wait until the last minute before we decide," he said.

Outerbridge injured himself attempting a return catch off his own bowling in a practice match against Tuks Academy and missed his team's six-wicket defeat to Namibia over the weekend.

He did not take part in Bermuda's final preparations at Potchefstroom University yesterday.

Outerbridge's omission could pave the way for Jacobi Robinson to come into the squad should the selectors opt for an extra seamer.

Last week Bermuda lost the services of opening batsman Chris Douglas who broke his left thumb executing a catch in the covers during a practice match in Pretoria.

Despite Outerbridge's health problems, Logie said he was confident his team could obtain the desired result against a UAE side who have had success against Bermuda in recent years.

"We have played UAE before and we are not taking anything for granted because every team in this tournament is a potential threat and I would like think we are also a potential threat," he said.

"We are going into it (today's match) with all things being equal knowing that we have put in the hard work and the fear factor is not going to be there as we know what to expect.

"I am excited and feel really good about the team's chances. They have put in a lot of work over the past few months and this is what it's all about."

Irving Romaine, the Bermuda skipper, was also in a positive frame of mind yesterday.

"The guys have put the work in and are anxious to play. It's too bad that only eleven can play," he said. "But everyone is raring to go and this is what we have been building up to."

Tomorrow will see Bermuda take on World Cricket League Division Three champions Afghanistan at Potchefstroom in their second qualifying match.

Bermuda (from): I.Romaine (capt), D.Hemp (v-capt), F.Crockwell, J.Edness (wk), K.Hodsoll, S.Kelly, D.Leverock, G.O'Brien Jr, G.Blakeney, S.Outerbridge, D.Leverock, R.Trott, J.Robinson, T.Tucker, J.Tucker, L.Cann.