Melbourne, Nov 27: With the Indian cricket team getting a taste of things to come in the gruelling four-Test series ahead, it has made a frantic call back home asking for the services of former Australian left-arm speedster Bruce Reid as the bowling coach for the 84-day tour. Informed sources in the team revealed to media persons today that the team management has spoken to cricket board chief Jagmohan Dalmiya about the need for a bowling coach and that they would prefer to have Reid for the job before the first Test in Brisbane starting on December 4.

Dalmiya has promised to get back to the team in another day or two. Apparently, the only thing standing between Reid and his appointment as India's bowling coach is the financial matter which needs to be cleared by the BCCI. Indian coach John Wright has already spoken to Reid and it is learnt the tall reed-like fast bowler is not averse to the idea.

Reid had earlier helped out Zimbabwe on their recent tour to Australia and provided "inside information" to the tourists, something which the Indians expect to come handy for the four-Test series.

Bureau Report