the Leeward Islands' three-match tour.

Albert Steede, whose century led the West Enders to a thrilling victory in Cup Match, and spinner Hasan Durham have been ruled out of tomorrow's match which will now be a 35-overs affair.

Because of the hurricane which smashed into Puerto Rico yesterday, the Leewards team are unable to arrive until mid-day Thursday instead of today and as such the first tour game has had to be shortened.

But, even without two of his top players, coach Winston Reid is confident the Cup Match select squad will produce a good performance.

"I don't see why one guy should stop the show,'' said Reid, who nonetheless acknowledged Steede's worth to the team.

Steede, a teacher, is unavailable because schools are back after the summer break. Durham, meanwhile, has returned to school abroad.

Reid is aware that a good showing from the local team in the first match would help boost the tour for the second and third matches on the weekend against the BCBC President's XI and Bermuda.

"It's important to start off on the right foot, we intend to play a good game.'' Two of those approached to fill the void are former team members, spinners Del Hollis, who has not yet returned to Scotland, and Wayne Richardson. Also considered were the two Cup Match reserves Garry Williams and Troy Symonds.

Somerset were scheduled to finalise their team last night.

George Francis and Lester Harnett will be the officials during the opening tour match, with Alex Virgil and Dennis Raynor officiating the President's XI match on Saturday at Wellington Oval. Wilbur Pitcher and Randy Butler will take charge of Sunday's game at St. David's.