West Indies fast bowler Daren Powell (left) appeals unsuccessfully for a caught behind decision against England batsman Owais Shah, during yesterday's opening day of the fifth and final Test, at Queen's Park Oval, Trinidad and Tobago. Shah retired hurt for 29 as England closed the day at 258 for two. - Dellmar photo

SHAWN CUMMINGS got the nod over Dwayne Brown on Wednesday night, sealing the super heavyweight spot on Jamaica's combined martial arts team to face Venezuela in Caracas on March 15.

Cummings joins micro and lightweight youngsters Alrick Wanliss and Nicholas Dussard, in addition to captain Jason McKay, Arthur Barrows and Kenneth Edwards, as Jamaica's representatives to tackle the Central Americans in the second leg of the Busta Pan-Am Challenge.

Travelling officials include Trevor Webb, Oswald Campbell and coach Claude Chin, who said he's taking no chances against the hosts.

The teams are set to meet for the first time ever with Jamaica clear favourites after successfully defending their world team-fighting championship at the US Open last summer.

However, Chin said Venezuela have improved and are not to be taken lightly.

worthy adversaries

"Venezuela are worthy adversaries who can be dangerous," he said. "They have been performing well on the world stage and have a lot of experience."

The Busta Pan-Am Challenge, formerly the Busta Caribbean Championships, has been ruled by Jamaica. With the United States being invitees this year, the championship was upgraded to encompass North America.

The push also fits in with fits in with Busta's promotional efforts to launch the soft drink line in other countries worldwide.

Paul Shoucair, general manager Jamaica Beverages, said the combined team, branded the Busta Fighters under a sponsorship deal with his company, has done wonders so far for the brand.

"The Busta Fighters are already huge internationally, a prime Jamaican sports brand, and are at the forefront of our expansion," he said.