JERSEY reached the qualifying tournament for the first time after winning European Division One on home soil.

To finish above Italy and Denmark is no mean achievement, and they will have their eyes on further glory.

They have assembled a youthful looking squad, with a sprinkling of experience, and could well cause a shock or two.

CricketEurope spoke with Jersey Head Coach Neil MacRae on the eve of the most important tournament in the island's cricket history.

"We're really excited about our first Global T-20 Qualifying Tournament and the opportunity to progress to the T-20 World Cup," said MacRae.

"We have a dynamic young side which is improving rapidly and played great cricket to win the European Division One tournament in May," added the former Scottish international.

Given their amateur status, getting the necessary time off can be problematic, but Jersey will be at full strength for the event.

"Preparations have been going well. Our first objective was to get everyone time off work for the tournament which we're delighted we've managed to do.

"We played warm up games in Hampshire last weekend against UAE and Kenya. Our win at the Ageas Bowl against Kenya, who are an experienced associate side, was a big confidence boost for the players ahead of the tournament."

Jersey Cricket's CEO Chris Minty was understandably proud of his team's efforts at reaching this stage, and paid tribute to the tremendous work ethic within the squad.

"Since qualifying for this tremendous opportunity to play at a higher level the Jersey squad have worked hard at their T20 skills and plans. This has included matches versus MCC and, last weekend in Southampton, a good match against the UAE and a hard fought victory over Kenya.

"All the squad and coaches are really looking forward to the challenge that awaits them."

Star Man: Ben Stevens is a tall left-arm spinner with good variations and a cool head when batting.

Players to watch: Skipper Peter Gough is an aggressive top order batsman and experienced captain. Jonty Jenner is a rising star, a member of the Sussex CCC's Academy and was Jersey's top run scorer at European Division 1.

Tony Kay is a dynamic all-rounder, while Ed Farley strikes the ball cleanly and if he gets going, scores very quickly all around the ground.

CricketEurope verdict: It will be a tough baptism for Jersey at this level, but they have the advantage of being in near-identical home conditions and don't be surprised if they pick up one or two major scalps.

JERSEY: Peter Gough (captain), Corey Bisson, Dom Blampied, Corne Bodenstein, Paul Connolly, Ed Farley, Anthony Kay, Jonty Jenner, Ben Kynman, Tommy Minty, Rhys Palmer, Chuggy Perchard, Callum Rabet, Ben Stevens, Nat Watkins.

JERSEY FIXTURES

• Jersey v Hong Kong (Bready, 11 July 10:00)
• Jersey v PNG (Bready, 12 July, 10:00)
• Jersey v USA (Bready, 15 July, 10:00)
• Jersey v Namibia (Clontarf, 17 July 10:00)
• Jersey v Nepal (Malahide, 18 July, 10:00)
• Jersey v Ireland (Malahide, 19 July, 10:00)