Wright hoping for end to NZ wage row

Coach John Wright feels India's preparations for next year's World Cup could be undermined unless a wage dispute in New Zealand is settled before they travel to that country early next month.

The former New Zealand Test captain will take India to his native country to play two Tests and seven one-day internationals in the team's final build-up for the World Cup to be played in South Africa in February-March.

With 128 members of the New Zealand Cricket Players Association reported to be united in their rejection of New Zealand Cricket's final offer in the dispute, India could end up facing an entirely new, and weakened national side.

"Obviously we would like to play the best team," Wright told reporters. "We want to play tough cricket."

"Hopefully, common sense will prevail," he said.

Wright was talking to reporters on the eve of the second one-dayer against West Indies. The visitors won the first match on Wednesday by four wickets.

Wright said India's nucleus for the World Cup side was in place and they were mainly on the lookout for a fast bowling all rounder who could be key on bouncier South African tracks.

"If we are realistic about our chances in South Africa, we have to look at particularly one side - a bowling all rounder who can help balance the side."

Wright said a player who can bat in the top six and bowl pace would be a bonus as India aim to regain the title they won in 1983.

India leave for New Zealand on December 4, with the first Test scheduled to start on December 12.

Mail Cricket Editor