If all goes according to plan, local cricket fans may be able to avoid the searing summer heat and do away with the umbrellas altogether.

That's because the Western Counties Cricket Association (WCCA) is looking at the possibility of staging next year's popular series under the floodlights at the newly resurfaced PHC Stadium.

And according to new WCCA president, Wendell White, 2004 could also see a top team from the Caribbean grace Bermuda's shores and compete against local opposition.

“The new committee is working very hard to restore the Western Counties to where it used to be,” said White yesterday. “When PHC is ready and available for play, the intentions of the Western Counties committee is to play the entire series under the lights. There are also plans currently in the works to invite an international team here to play the local winners of various competitions.

“We are looking to have them play against the league (Premier Division), Cup Match and Eastern, Central and Western Counties champions.”

White, however, conceded the committee had yet to hold direct talks with PHC officials about the proposed venture and it remains to be seen just how officials at Somerset Bridge and Southampton Rangers react. At present, White Hill Field and Southampton Oval are the only two venues eligible under the Association's constitution to stage the popular summer series which has steadily regained some of its former prestige - thanks largely to White's predecessor, Keith Wainwright and his administration.

The WCCA chief said he plans to meet with PHC president, Chris Furbert, in the very near future. The WCCA will hold a meeting tonight at Warwick Workmen's Club.

White also unveiled a few new plans for this year's series. According the WCCA chief, the Governor John Vereker and Premier Jennifer Smith will both be on hand to officially greet players from current holders Somerset Bridge and challengers Willow Cuts prior to the start of the July 5 opening round contest at White Hill Field. This summer's series will also see live performances put on by local Gombey tribes and the Portuguese dancers between innings.

Also, the WCCA has donated a plaque and a trophy in honour of former WCCA founder Warren Simmons which will be presented to the Most Valuable Player of the entire series. The existing Harley Raynor Memorial trophy - traditionally awarded to the star of the series - will now be presented to the highest scoring batsman throughout the event. Pot Luck suppers at respective WCCA club venues will also take place throughout the summer.

“We are also on the verge of obtaining a major sponsor and there will be raffle draws for great prizes throughout the summer,” added White.

“We have a lot of people who want to get onboard and the committee is working hard to get the event back - or close enough - to where it used to be.”