the annual testimonial match at Lord's, St. David's, a week on Saturday.

The confirmation of Butcher means that the event will now have two invited players with former West Indies skipper Richie Richardson have previously confirmed his appearance for the first time.

Testimonial spokesman St. Clair (Brinky) Tucker said that further attempts would be made to lure another former West Indies player for the event as well to add to star attractions Richardson and Butcher.

Just last week he revealed negotiations were taking place to bring in a world-renowned name. Among those rumoured to have been approached are the two former great opening batsmen Desmond Haynes and Gordon Greenidge of Barbados.

Yesterday Tucker was still unwilling to say who they were attempting to sign up.

"The fact that Bermuda's new national coach has accepted the invitation is certainly good news for us and the public at large,'' said Tucker.

"It will give the fans a fantastic chance to see first hand the individual who will be in charge of taking our overall cricket programme to the next level.'' He added: "Last year we were unable to get a foreign player here after they had to pull out at the last minute, but our committee is determined to make up for that absence by attempting to have two or three become involved this time around.

"From the outset we said that this event is for the Island, it helps to raise money for youth development, for ailing ex-players and also it gives us an avenue to honour players who have played an integral part of cricket in the past and we will endeavour to continue to play this role.

"With all of this in mind we hope that the public will continue to give their support and come out to Lord's in large numbers on September 23.''