Fit-again Leveridge looking to shine against SL

Fast bowler Reynard Leveridge.

KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC – Fast bowler Reynard Leveridge is eyeing the upcoming Sri Lanka A tour as another opportunity to prove his credentials, after recently working his way back from injury.

The Jamaican burst onto the scene last year after being spotted by West Indies selectors bowling in the nets, as West Indies prepared for the Test against India at Sabina Park.

But after breaking down on the Windies A tour of Sri Lanka last October and then again in the final of the Regional Super50 last February, Leveridge said he was fit again and focussed on making an impact when Sri Lanka A tours the Caribbean next month.

“I’m looking forward to the preparation and I know we have a lot of physical [work] to do in Antigua [at the preparation camp], but I’m mentally and physically ready for that,” he told the Jamaica Observer.

“It [this chance] means a whole lot to me, because the first game against Sri Lanka ‘A’ [last year] I had to pull out of the series with a groin injury. I didn’t get the opportunity to stamp my class and let the world know what I can do. This one is really important to me, so I’m going to go out there to do my best.”

Standing six-feet, five-inches and bowling with pace, Leveridge was quickly identified as one for the future but lasted just 23 deliveries on his first class debut in the first unofficial Test in Colombo.

He recuperated in time for this year’s Regional Super50, grabbing nine wickets before suffering disappointment in the final when he sent down just six overs before going out injured.

Leveridge said with more games under his belt now, he felt more prepared for the imminent series.

“The last ‘A’ tour I didn’t know exactly what to expect, but after playing some first-class games for Jamaica and playing in the Super50 [50-over tournament] I basically know exactly what I’m going to do and how I’m going to execute my game plan,” he said.

West Indies A face Sri Lanka A in two “Tests” and three one-dayers from October 11 to November 5.