likely to perform for an overseas coach than a local one.

Parfitt pointed to his own past experience as a national team player to argue the team would rally behind a Bermudian coach.

Parfitt, recovering from the flu at home in Arbroath, Scotland, was responding to the theory of former St. George's cricket administrator Mansfield Smith that that a Bermuda national coach would not gain the respect of the local players.

Legendary cricketer Alma (Champ) Hunt had been successful as a coach after a long, distinguished playing career in Bermuda and then in Scotland, said Parfitt.

Parfitt is reported to be interested in learning more about the job description when the Bermuda Cricket Board of Control begin to advertise for a coach.

"Mr. Smith has a right to give his opinion when he favours foreign coaches, I am not about to knock anybody's opinion really. But I remember having Alma Hunt as coach when I was playing and he did a brilliant job ... and he wasn't that close to us players, that's for sure,'' said Parfitt.

"As far as getting the respect I guess people's views will differ, it depends on who you talk to. I really don't know the present day players there in Bermuda, but I don't think there will be any issue about gaining their respect.'' The BCBC are reluctant to discuss the issue of national coach until their executive committee has met to determine a job description.

"I am really bothered about all of this talk and speculation concerning our appointing of a national coach and Mr. Parfitt. Truthfully speaking I don't think it deserves all of this attention it's getting because nothing is really going on,'' said president El James.

"I've already made it clear that we cannot say anything specific because things are still at an early stage. Yes I have talked to Parfitt and it was no more than a discussion.

"Until we come up with a job description and until our committee decides which direction they wish to go the situation is at a standstill.''