as a tribute to his team-mates' contribution to the exciting win last week.

The award, sponsored by RJ Reynolds and Camel, has its first back-to-back Somerset winner since its inception in 1982. It has been an award dominated over the years by St. George's with the only other winner from Somerset being Anthony Amory in 1989.

And while there were other notable performances in Cup Match, including Hasan Durham's seven for 71 in the St. George's innings -- the first seven wicket haul in a Cup Match innings since Clarence Parfitt's seven for 18 in 1978 -- Steede was the obvious winner.

The dashing batsman scored 71 in the first innings for Somerset and then finally got that elusive century in the second innings as Somerset pulled off a thrilling victory that even St. George's fans enjoyed.

"First and foremost I would like to thank God for the strength and talent he has given me and secondly my wonderful wife Shauntia for endless support and patience, especially during the Cup Match period when we were practicing four times a week,'' said Steede as he accepted the award yesterday at the offices of the Bermuda Cricket Board of Control.

"Thirdly I would like to thank our Cup Match head coach Winston Reid, who has experienced our losses, draws and now finally our victory, and a special mention to John Tucker who was by our side the last few weeks giving us a helping hand and offering inspiration and advice.'' After also thanking captain Dexter Basden, who was present, Steede then paid tribute to his Somerset team-mates.

"To my team-mates I do not accept this award on behalf of Albert Steede but on behalf of all of you. Winning took a team effort so I express my praise and respect and credit to you all individually.

"I shall not place this award on my trophy cabinet but have it displayed at Somerset Cricket Club in recognition of all of you as my team-mates.'' Ed Bailey, president of the Bermuda Cricket Board of Control who presented the award to Steede, was complimentary of Steede's conduct during the match.

"Your sportsmanship on the field set an example and I'm very happy that as the national captain you were the perfect role model,'' Bailey told Steede.