Prime Minister Sheikh* Hasina has awarded Taka two lakh fifty thousand (5.000 dollars) to Bangladesh World Cup team physiotherapist Robert Hunt lor his outstanding work with the team.

The amount was handed over to the Melbourne-based physio, who was appointed two months before the World Cup. by State Minister for Youth and Sports Obaidul Quader on behalf of the Prime Minister at a dinner hosted by the National Sports Council in honour of the national cricket team.

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president Saber Hossain Chowdhuiy, manager Tanveer Mazhar Islam, captain Aminul Islam and all the members of Bangladesh team attended the function. Also present were State Minister for Foreign Affairs Abul Hasan Chowdhuy and senior Awami League leaders.

Talking to The Daily Star. Hunt, who left for home last • night. said that he was likely to join the Bangladesh youth team (under-20) in early July to prepare it for the World Youth Cup qualifiers to be held in Singapore from mid-July.

"1 have already been asked by the BCB to work with the national team on a long-term basis but I shall have to review my schedule."

“I'm connected to the Australia ‘A’ team. Whenever they go on tour, I have to accompany

them. Also I'm involved with an Australian Rules football club and of course, there is my practice. So I have to make time between all these commitments and then come here," said Hunt.

However. BCB supremo Saber Hossain confirmed that Hunt would be back in time for the youth team camp. He also said that the board has already requested the Australian doctor to render his services for another season. “Robert has done

a splendid job. Unlike previous tours, nobody was injured during the World Cup. That is why lit is Imperative for us to appoint a permanent physio." said the local cricket boss.