the first time in several years.

It was confirmed yesterday that Bermuda Cricket Board of Control had officially approached Government for funding to pay for a qualified person.

The position, last held by Englishman Bob Jones back in the 1970s, is one which BCBC president El James said he wanted filled as early as possible, preferably before the new season begins in April.

While the exact amount being sought has not been disclosed, it is known that funding for a coach would be over and above the annual BCBC grant of $118,000 which helps pay for general administrative and other domestic purposes.

It is believed the latest request is in the region of $50,000.

Sports Minister Tim Smith confirmed that he had talked with James recently and said that his ministry was in receipt of an application from the cricket board.

"Yes, a letter has been received and it will be considered. But to date no decision has been made,'' said Smith.

A BCBC source said that everything was in place as regards a formal application for funding and noted that the onus was now on Government to offer whatever help they could or leave the Board with no alternative but to approach the public and business sector for help.

Except for coaching spells by Australia's Bob Simpson and England's Doug Ferguson, Bermuda hasn't had a full-time coach for an extended period since Jones left some 20 years ago.

James said earlier his priority list for the New Year included the appointment of a coach which he said was was a vital part of the implementation of an ambitious five-year plan that would help revitalise the beleaguered sport.

"Ideally we want somebody with a full qualification who can take our current and potential coaches through the ranks, then to another level, and be recognised by the cricket authorities overseas,'' said James a few weeks ago.

"We are not looking for just an ex-player per se. We are not just looking for somebody who likes to go out and show people how to make a forward defensive shot -- he must be a highly qualified coach who is versatile, who is capable of giving speeches at public functions and who has the ability to let sponsors and the public know just what the programme he has set up is all about.'' James also stressed that the success of local cricket depended on various business entities looking at the Board more favourably than they had in the past and being prepared to assist in fund-raising endeavours.