While the senior team stand on the brink of a first Americas championship triumph, the Under-15s leave tomorrow for Florida to defend the regional crown they have held for the past five years.

A 14-man squad, captained by promising young legspinner Tre Govia, was unveiled yesterday by the Bermuda Cricket Board ? and head coach Grant Smith is optimistic about the Island's chances of success.

"In terms of all-round strength I would say this squad is not as strong as those we've had in previous years ? but I still think the ability is there to win it again," said the man who has presided over three consecutive Americas Championship victories.

"It's going to be tough, no question. We are the defending champions and the pressure will be on us once again. The boys are well aware of that though and we think we've prepared as well as we can for the challenge."

As well as the 14 players picked in the main squad, four others ? Christian Burgess, Makia Young, Michael Coles and Kamua Leverock ? are also being taken along to play in the combined regional team which has been included in the tournament alongside Bermuda, the US and Canada.

"We're taking 18 players in total and four of those will form a part of the combined team," Smith said.

"It's a really good opportunity for those four boys, who ordinarily would have been left at home, but now have the chance to gain exposure and experience playing cricket abroad."

Smith was assisted throughout the squad's preparations by Terry Ward ? although it was revealed yesterday that he will not be making the trip because of work commitments and will be replaced by Bailey's Bay stalwart Ricky Hill.

T.Govia (captain), T.Fray (vice-captain), T.Caines, K.Fubler, J.Gilbert, S.Hall, M.Hudson, M.Johnson, G.Maybury, P.Smith, S.Smith, R.Smith, R.Wilson