Gavin Wallace's outstanding bowling performance against the Leeward Islands in last weekend's regional first-class tournament has landed him a place in the West Indies' A team to play England.

Wallace, who took 8-20 to propel champions Jamaica to a six-wicket win over the Leewards, is the only Jamaican included in the squad, The Gleaner has learnt.

Bowling figures

His bowling figures are now the Jamaican record, having bettered Nehemiah Perry's eight for 45 against Guyana at Sabina Park in 1989.

Wallace's inclusion means he will not be available for Jamaica's first home match against Barbados as the West Indies 'A' Team will play England on the same weekend, January 29-31, in St Kitts - the venue where he destroyed the Leewards.

Meanwhile, The Gleaner also learnt that Wavell Hinds will return to the island on Tuesday, following Jamaica's second-round match against Trinidad and Tobago. Hinds, it has been learnt, is returning to attend the funeral of a family member.

His replacement has not yet been named, but a well-placed Jamaica Cricket Association (JCA) source said all the West Indies players, with the exception of Jerome Taylor, will be available for selection.

"The West Indies Cricket Officer, Roland Holder, has advised the JCA that Taylor must not be considered for regional selection," the source noted.

According to the source, Taylor "needs active rest and rehabilitation to be followed by a gradual return to batting practice, in preparation for England home series".

Taylor is also required to do physiotherapy, with a specific programme to be included.

- Anthony Foster