BCCI may appoint foreign physio cum trainer

The Indian cricket team may have a physical trainer cum physio from another country in the near future. The Board of Control for Cricket in India has approached a few countries to seek the services of a foreigner, it is reliably learnt.

``The BCCI has received several applications including people from the Navy and Army from all parts of India. The BCCI has also approached countries like South Africa, England and Australia for suitable claimants for the post which may be filled when the term of Dr. Ravinder Chaddha expires later this month" according to a source close to the Board.

I. S. Bindra, the former BCCI chief and the Punjab Cricket Association president confirmed having written a letter to the Board to utilise the services of a good foreign physio at any cost.

Ali Bacher, the managing director of the United Cricket Board of South Africa (UCBSA) has also been approached and efforts are being made at the highest level in search of a good physio. The ICC president Jagmohan Dalmiya and BCCI president Rajsingh Dungarpur are thought to be negotiating on the Board?s behalf.

Speaking to this correspondent over telephone from Johannesburg Bacher confirmed the news. "I am being asked to suggest a few names. I have a few good physios in mind. I shall discuss with them regarding their fees, availability and duration for which your country needs them and pass on the information to Mr. Lele (BCCI secretary) at next month?s ICC meeting to be held in Dubai".

The tour of Kenya next week could well be Dr. Ravinder Chaddha?s last trip with the team. The team leaves for Nairobi Sept 21 and names for a new physio may be discussed at BCCI?s AGM to be held at Jaipur on Sept 21 and 22.