Promising Jamaican opener Kennar Lewis left the country earlier this week high on confidence that he can play an integral role in helping Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel lift the second instalment of the Caribbean Premier League.

The bit-hitting 22-year-old, who has so far represented Jamaica in six one-dayers and three Twenty20s, was earlier this year picked by the Red Steel during the 12th and penultimate round of the player draft, which was held in Kingston.

"I am happy that I got selected, and going to Trinidad, I intend to make full use of the opportunity," said Lewis.

"I know it will not be easy, and it may be difficult for me to make the starting team, but if and when I get the chance, I am going to try to put my best foot forward."

Lewis, who last turned out for Jamaica in the regional one-day tournament in Trinidad earlier this year, is one of several specialist batsmen who are apart of the Red Steel's 15-man squad.

headed by captain

The list is headed by captain Dwayne Bravo, his younger sibling Darren, Ireland's Kevin O'Brien, Jason Mohammed, and attacking Pakistan opener, Nasir Jamshed.

"I was following the player draft on Twitter and after seeing my name come up I was excited," said Lewis, who is a six-footer and is powerfully built.

"I then got a call from my friend (Jermaine) Blackwood confirming that I was selected.

The Red Steel, who made it to the semi-finals last year, are set to play their opening game next Saturday against the Kieron Pollard-captained Barbados Tridents in at the National Stadium in Grenada.