Fletcher makes right noises

A day of firsts

It was a day of firsts for Fletcher. He attended his first selection committee meeting shortly after the media conference and sources close to the selectors said that he observed and familiarised himself with the process followed by the committee.

It was clear that there wouldnt be a drastic change in the coaching philosophy that Kirsten followed. Or like Fletcher said one that the South African adopted from him before heading for his India assignment in early 2008. My philosophy has always been simple: of helping the players to add some value, Fletcher said in reply to a question whether he would have to change his coaching style when it comes to the World Champions who have superstars in their ranks.

As I said before it is not about being a dictator in terms of how I want them to play. Sure to some degree you have to try and influence them. Gary Kirsten followed my philosophy. He came and spoke to me before he took up the Indian job. I offered him advice on how to handle situations and he took that on board. By Gary sort of pushing me for this job,talking to BCCI about my credentials,he realised that my philosophy of coaching is right for India, the Zimbabwe-born coach said.

Kirsten has held his successor in high regard since his stint with Western Province where Fletcher was coach in the early 1990s. Incidentally,the captain of Western Province at that time was current India bowling coach Eric Simmons. Fletcher consulted Kirsten before taking up the job after first asking the BCCI to give him 4 to 5 days to think over the offer.

Fletcher is likely to ease into the job quietly and observe carefully before trying to many any changes. Even if he wants to tamper with technique or team combinations,it will be a studied decision and not one taken in haste,Fletcher suggested.

Value addition

The coach admitted that it would be a challenge to maintain the momentum after the World Cup high. Yes it will be difficult and thats one of the things you consider before taking up the job. Hopefully I can add value somewhere down the line.

On the talent at his disposal,Fletcher made it clear that performance rather than age will be a factor. I believe if a player is good enough to play no matter what his age is he should play. India is fortunate to have outstanding senior players.

Fletcher rated the tours to West Indies,England and Australia as tough challengers in the backyards of opponents but believed that playing England in England will be the sternest test while against an Australian side that is trying to rebuild he believed India have the talent to hold their own Down Under.

UDRS stumps Fletcher

For all his composure there was a moment when Fletcher was caught unawares. Asked about the ICCs call to extend the decision review system DRS to all Test matches also,Fletcher seemingly indicated that it was something that would gain acceptance perhaps unaware of the BCCIs strong opposition to referrals. Its a system that will come into place. Obviously there are imperfections but once those imperfections are sorted out,it will play a role, Fletcher said.

Even before Fletcher could complete his sentence,Srinivasan whispered to him and then turned around and said: That was a loaded question. Mr Fletcher doesnt know the BCCIs stance on DRS. You should have prefaced your question properly. Anyway,it doesnt matter.