OUT-OF-FORM Jamaican opener Xavier Marshall has been replaced by Danza Hyatt in 13-man squad for the West Indies Cricket Board’s regional four-day match against Guyana, starting in Barbados on Friday.

Marshall, who last played a Test match against England in February of last year, has struggled in the first two matches of this season’s regional tourney.

The stylish right-hander made only two and 10 in the first game against the Windward Islands in Jamaica and did no better in the following round against the Leeward Islands in St Kitts, registering scores of 13 and 0.

Chairman of selectors Nehemiah Perry insisted that “lack of runs and lack of confidence in his whole approach” was the main reason for the decision.

It is understood that the Jamaica Cricket Association’s (JCA’s) decision was made after consultation with the team management, including technical director James Adams, coach Junior Bennett and captain Tamar Lambert.

“Even on the field his whole attitude didn’t suggest that he really and truly wanted it and was hungry for it, so we’ve decided to give him a break and try somebody else to see if that person can give us the start that we have been looking for…” said Perry of the 23-year-old batsman who is yet to score a first-class century since making his debut in the 2003-2004 season.

Jamaica currently lead the standings with 24 points after completing easy victories against the Windward and Leeward Islands.

Experts have suggested that it appeared unusual for a player to be replaced at this stage, since after this round Jamaica are set to have an extended break until February 12 when they meet the Combined Campuses and Colleges (CCC) team in a day/night fixture.

Perry has, however, defended the decision, arguing that the two-time defending champions were bracing for stiffer challenges from the likes of Guyana, Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago, so they cannot sit back while the middle order was being constantly exposed early on in the innings.

“We’re out in front by nine points and we’re looking for an outright win against Guyana. We’re trying to see if we can get the right combination from now to move forward in the next four games,” Perry explained.

When the Observer contacted the JCA’s operations officer, Courtney Francis, he confirmed the replacement and contended it was done in the best interest of the team. “When you’re trying to win championships you have to play your best team at all times, so if in the minds of the persons who have that responsibility he is not part of the best team, then it’s only reasonable for them to drop him,” he stated.

Francis said Marshall should have returned to the island on an afternoon flight from the Eastern Caribbean yesterday, while Hyatt, who is also yet to reach a maiden first-class ton after 24 matches, should be en route to Barbados to join his teammates.

Perry was quick to add that Marshall will be placed in a programme to ensure he continues playing cricket and stays in contention for the remaining games.

“When a player is left out they come straight back into a camp set up by us to continue the progress because we might come back to them, but we have to keep them sharp,” he said.