a year ago as they prepare to defend the trophy at Wellington Oval next week.

Out of contention even before today's final trial match takes place at Somerset are fast bowler Roger Blades (injured), all-rounder Janeiro Tucker (injured) and batsman Jeff Richardson who has retired.

Finding replacements for this formidable trio while also evaluating any other positions that may warrant change is something the selectors will have to do immediately after today's President's XI v Vice President's XI match which traditionally signals the conclusion of the build-up to this evening's final selection.

Ricky Swan, chairman of the Somerset selectors for the past two years, says he's not about to panic -- but he admits that picking this year's team will present some problems.

"It's going to be difficult. A lot of the players are in form and it's difficult in that sense. But I would rather have it this way than in a negative way,'' said Swan yesterday.

Among those in good batting form besides skipper Dexter Basden and vice captain Albert Steede is veteran Andre Manders.

Manders announced his retirement from the classic last year but following a personal approach from skipper Basden, he decided to make himself available and has now played in all of the West Enders' trial matches.

"He has been very much involved and we are happy that Andre has agreed to make himself available for selection once again,'' said Swan.

Manders will play in today's vice president's line-up skippered by Steede.

Making Somerset's selection somewhat easier is the availability of all-rounder Richard Basden, the captain's brother who decided to sit out last year.

He is virtually assured of one of the three vacant spots.

If Richard comes into the team for Richardson, then the main headache will be replacing Blades and Tucker.

Those in contention to fill those spots are all-rounder Dwayne Leverock of Police, fast bowler Kevin Hurdle of Flatts and batsman Irving Romaine of Bailey's Bay.

Others who could put themselves in the frame with good performances today include seamer Brian Gibbons of Willow Cuts and medium pacer Quinton Sherlock of Southampton.

Following today's two Cup Match trials at both ends of the Island, limited overs action continues tomorrow with a four-way tie for first place in the Premier Division about to be broken.

Top two teams on net run rate, Willow Cuts and Western Stars, meet in the game of the day at Somerset Cricket Club as Somerset Cup Match captain Dexter Basden and vice captain Albert Steede find themselves on opposing sides.

Both hit centuries last weekend as Willow Cuts scored a sensational victory over Bailey's Bay and Stars stopped St. George's.

Also on eight points are Police and St.George's, with Police at home to inconsistent Bay and St.George's hosting Cleveland at Wellington Oval.

In the other match, bottom team Southampton Rangers take on Devonshire Rec. at Southampton Oval.

First Division leaders St.David's take on Hamilton Parish at Sea Breeze Oval while Warwick, second, face bottom team Somerset Bridge at White Hill. Flatts host Somerset at Devonshire Rec. and Social Club take on PHC at Nationals.