and possibly play.

Daryll Cullinan, South Africa's highest run scorer in Tests, took the initiative to approach Bermuda Cricket Board of Control.

He enquired about the possibility of visiting the Island for a coaching stint this summer after representing his country at the World Cup in England -- and the BCBC have snapped up his offer.

"It's certainly exciting when somebody of his stature comes out of the blue and offers his services. We are looking forward to it,'' said Board president El James.

Many locals will be aware of Cullinan's talents following this year's series against the West Indies in South Africa when he played a key role in inspiring his country to emphatic victories in both the Tests and one-day internationals.

It was former Bermuda national coach Bob Jones who first mentioned the Island to Cullinan and the player's timing proved ideal.

Cullinan called the Board himself and it was during a discussion with James that negotiations began and the way was eventually paved for the player to visit.

It was originally thought that the arrangement was set up by Dr Ali Bacher, president of the South African Cricket Board of Control and chairman of the ICC Development Committee, who vowed to promote the game among non Test-playing countries in this manner during a visit to the Island two years ago.

But Bacher's involvement only came when he was to later recommend to the Board that Cullinan was a capable individual who could assist Bermuda in both coaching and development.

"We have been looking to upgrade our coaches and we are looking at means for developing our players, so we are pleased to see things happening to assist us in this area,'' added James.

"We are, in fact, looking at another coaching opportunity in addition to Cullinan during the summer months. We are hoping to bring somebody in next month to take our youth coaches and anyone else to the first two levels of coaching and we are making progress there.'' The Board are currently talking with MCC coach Allan Mansell who is believed to be their first choice.

James said that the Board could have sought the services of many ex-Test players, but believed their priority was to get a qualified coach with experience in teaching the finer points of coaching.

"We have always wanted somebody out here, somebody who comes from a coaching nation, a cricketing nation where they have a cricket academy where cricket is progressing. We are satisfied whoever comes will have all of the skills we envisioned,'' said James.

From the courses, locals will receive certificates for the first two steps and then provisions will be made to schedule an advanced course.

James asked that coaches and players interested in participating in the course contact the Board's office as soon as possible.

As far as Cullinan is concerned, James noted that the Test player seemed to be relishing the opportunity to come to Bermuda. He wanted to enjoy a vacation here while taking the opportunity to coach.

It is expected that he will arrive at the conclusion of the World Cup and stay until September.

"It's not going to cost us much. He is looking for some rest after the World Cup but would like to become involved with our programme ... and we can certainly use his services,'' said James.

"We can use him for the cricket clinics for youngsters, use him for the youth programme and getting them ready for the Canadians, and we can use him to get the senior national team ready for the Red Stripe.''