Phillips looking to lead Tallawahs batting once again

New Zealand wicket-keeper batsman Glenn Phillips could not hold back his excitement of being part of the Jamaica Tallawahs for the 2019 edition of the Caribbean Premier League.

The Tallawahs will bow into action on Friday when they take on the home side the Trinbago Knight Riders, who will be going for their second win in as many games having defeated the St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots in the tournament opener.

Opening batsman Phillips, who racked up a Tallawahs leading 457 runs in 11 matches in 2018, says it will be more of the same this season.

"It's great to be back, I am just going out there and play my natural attacking game. It's always important for the team to get a good start and I have been given the licence and freedom to go at the bowling so I am looking forward to the challenge," said the Kiwi.

Last year, Phillips became just the second foreign player behind compatriot Colin Munro to hit a CPL hundred. The Kiwi, who joined up with the rest of the team in Trinidad and Tobago says he is looking forward to playing alongside the 'Universe Boss' Chris Gayle.

"Oh man, I grew up watching this guy and to be playing with him in the same team is an honour, we have spoken to each other already and we basically just talked about how we will be batting together and we also chatted about each other's games so we pretty much understand what is expected," he said.

With several new faces also in the squad, the likes of Derval Green, Shamar Springer, Imran Khan and Ramaal Lewis, Phillips says he is relishing the opportunity of playing alongside some of the regions talented youngsters.

"Some of the guys have been really showing some good qualities in the net sessions, Christopher Lamont is just brilliant, really promising left arm with good control and Derval Green is also bowling well, so it's exciting times for the Tallawahs. We just have to come out and play smart fighting cricket and, hopefully, we can come away with some wins," he said.