Top local cricket umpire Lester Harnett is throwing his support behind former Somerset president Reginald Pearman in the two-horse race for presidency of Bermuda Cricket Board Control.

But he is also stressing that Pearman's opponent for the top post, Southampton's Keith Wainwright, should take his place on the executive should he fail to win election.

Harnett, President of Bermuda Cricket Umpires Association, said this week he would like to see someone of Wainwright's calibre further assist in the development of local cricket. And he felt that Pearman possessed the necessary experience to help groom the Rangers veteran for the future.

"It is a pleasure to be in a position to speak on my knowledge of Wainwright as I consider myself fortunate to have witnessed his career from his inception into the league," said Harnett.

"Keith possesses a great demeanour, very polished and has impeccable deportment."

"I feel this way because as an official I have been around the game for some time now, and I have seen this gentleman come into the game and apply himself admirably both on and off the pitch," added Harnett, a former player for Cavaliers in the now defunct Somers Isle Cricket League.

Wainwright, an aggressive opening batsman and occasional spinner, has represented Bermuda at international level and is currently president of the Western Counties, and a former vice-president of Southampton Rangers. He works as an accountant and assistant manager at Bermuda College, and has played a leading role in revitalising the Western Counties in recent seasons.

"Keith as a young man still exhibits the qualities I previously mentioned and would indeed be a good prospect for the presidency sometime in the near future," added Harnett, who has been involved with cricket locally for almost 30 years.

Western Stars have added their name to the extensive list of teams planning to tour overseas next summer. Sources within the club recently disclosed to The Royal Gazette that they intend sending a squad to both Canada and the United States in August, next year.