It is a challenge, says new coach Wright

“It is a big challenge. That is the reason I have accepted it. I am sure I’ll be able to enjoy my stint with the Indian team. I am confident of earning every team member’s respect even as I catch up with my responsibilities and duties towards Indian cricket,” the 46-year-old Wright told newsmen.

”It is a great honour and I am delighted to coach India where people from all walks of life follow cricket passionately or rather religiously,” Wright, has taken over the charge from former India opener Anshuman Gaekwad. “Though I have seen many established players closely during India’s tour of New Zealand a couple of years ago and again earlier this summer in England, I will listen to all, observe them and plan carefully. While I will have my ideas, I will be open to them as well for feedback,” Wright said of his immediate plans for the team.

Wright, who has played 82 Tests for New Zealand scoring 5,334 runs, has been awarded a one-year coaching assignment by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

The New Zealander said he would pay utmost attention to discipline and values and standards for the entire team. “I want the players to enjoy the intervals between matches because present-day cricketers play a lot of matches,” he stressed. “Of course, the emphasis on basic skills and style will always be there,” he added.

His message to the Indian cricketers was “improvement is always needed even when the team is doing well and that should be in the mind of each player.”

On his role, Wright said he expected each player to put in an improved performance.