Scrap old selection method!

I WRITE this piece in anguish. I can’t understand why those persons responsible for Barbados cricket continue every year to use this archaic method called trials to selecting teams.  Many years ago, trial games served their purpose where peripheral players made hundreds and placed selectors under pressure to select.  These days, trial games are over in two with both teams having batted twice.Following the current Twenty20 trials, the scores are pathetic so how can selectors select teams based on these performances?  Performances have been so poor that selectors then select teams based on who they believe can play or who did well in the four-day competition.The players play in the Sagicor Twenty20 competition from which a squad of 20 players should be selected. Instead, the competition was shortened to accommodate trials before the start of the tournament three weeks away.I am suggesting that scrapping the trials, lengthening the tournament and having the players play in proper game situations would have been better preparation.  Fitness sessions during the week are focused on 20 players rather than 40 to ensure that players get individual attention.More time should also be spent teaching these individuals the rudiments of the Twenty20, giving players their roles, identifying bowlers who will bowl at the death and having each individual practice their skills on a consistent basis.It is not by chance that Australia and England execute their skills on a consistent basis, albeit that there are professional cricketers.These guys practice their individual skills consistently and do lots of scenario work.  Therefore, when a particular scenario arises, they are confident in its execution. Too many times our players don’t have a clue what to do, hence, the decision-making is very poor. • Ron Cumberbatch is a former Carlton and BCL Division 1 cricketer