Devonshire Rec’s Central Counties title defence has received a massive shot in the arm with the inclusion of star player Kamau Leverock in their squad for the first round against Evening League side North Village at Devonshire Recreation Club.

The experienced all-rounder is poised to make his debut for the holders in the competition, and is one of two guest players in a squad that includes wicketkeeper Ricardo Brangman from St David’s.

Leverock has been in good form, having shone with bat and ball for Sandys Spartans in the recent Bermuda Smash Invitational, which Devonshire will be hoping he can continue as they look to tighten their grip on the trophy.

He is among several key players in the holders’ team, which includes captain George O’Brien Jr, all-rounder Treadwell Gibbons Jr, opening batter Ankoma Cannonier.

Even though they are the favourites heading into the clash, the holders and hosts are not taking their opponents for granted.

“We are not going to take them lightly even though they will be missing a few of their marquee names,” Derek Dechabert, the Devonshire head of cricket and vice-president, told The Royal Gazette. “From the first ball we are looking to gain the upper hand, and a good result allows us to defend our trophy next week [against Western Stars].

Village have also named two guest players in their team in Macai Young and Swayne Campbell, as they attempt to wrestle the cup away from their opponents.

Shervin Jennings, the Village captain, believes his team are capable of pulling off an upset.

“They are the favourites, but I am confident the guys can get the job done,” he said. “We are coming to play.

“We are just coming to put bat to ball and try to bowl, and at the end of the day anything can happen in cricket.”

The 50-overs contest starts at 11am, with the winner to face Western Stars in the final round at the same venue on June 28.

Meanwhile, domestic cricket continues tomorrow with the second round of the 50-overs competitions.

In the Premier Division, Somerset will host Bailey’s Bay at Somerset Cricket Club, Cleveland County face St David’s at Lord’s, while Warwick are at home to Flatts at Southampton Oval. Champions St George’s have received a bye.

First Division fixtures will see Devonshire Rec host PHC, Somerset Bridge take on Western Counties rivals Willow Cuts at White Hill Field, and Western Stars and Southampton Rangers do battle at Sea Breeze Oval.

All matches start at 10.30am.