While the panic button hasn't been pressed just yet, those in the camp of Cup Match champions Somerset are expressing concern over team selection problems with just two weeks remaining before the summer classic.

The West Enders could be forced to make as many as four changes from last year's winning team because of injury, retirement or unavailability.

Currently on the doubtful list are fast bowler Roger Blades and all-rounder Janeiro Tucker, while veteran Jeff Richardson hasn't played any domestic cricket this season. Such uncertainties are forcing Somerset to scramble just in order to get enough players to compete for places in the team.

Another veteran from last year, Andre Manders, has been asked to return having originally said he had retired from Cup Match.

Somerset's chairman of selectors, Ricky Swan, conceded that the situation was the most difficult he had experienced in his three years in the position. But he still believes the eventual team can successfully defend the trophy at Wellington Oval.

"This is the toughest year we have experienced since I have been chairman, but we have to deal with the situation at hand,'' said Swan.

"We are still very confident that we will have players available who will be good enough to replace those who may not be available from last year's winning side.'' Swan says the club are most worried about finding capable bowlers. "I don't think we will be too concerned with batting, but the bowlers are going to have to raise their game and put forward a greater effort,'' he said Swan.

Blades and Corey Hill shared the new ball last year, but the former has been bothered by a calf injury and is finding it difficult to shake off. Tucker has a similar injury which clouds his availability and without that pair, the bowling attack would be severely hampered although Hill will be back.

The pace bowlers in contention for Blades' spot could be Kevin Hurdle, Gershon Gibbons and Brian Gibbons.

Former Somerset Cup Match opener Rodney Fubler played in the last trial but Swan doesn't think the veteran is interested in contending for a place.

All-rounder Richard Basden makes his return after sitting out last year, and he could aid the team immensely in both the batting and bowling departments.

In the last trial several newcomers made creditable contributions, namely Irving Romaine who was unbeaten with a half century and Gershon Gibbons who stroked 60. Among other young players invited to Somerset's training are Cal Dill, Daniel Morgan and Daniel Caines.