Wright to Moody: Do you want my job?

‘‘I haven’t been formally approached yet but if there was an offer I would be interested in taking up the challenge’’, says Moody, who has been part of two World Cup-winning Australian teams.

Sources close to the team say Moody’s profile suits the job more than Chappell’s simply because, much like Wright himself, he’s more low-key and will not shift the focus from the players. Another similarity with Wright is that Moody wasn’t a hugely talented cricketer, rather a hard-working one. And someone who would willingly do the nuts and bolts work for the team, as Wright has done over the past five seasons.

Not surprisingly, Moody has a high opinion of the Indian team. ‘‘They are exceptionally talented with world-class players’’, he said. ‘‘I must say that it has come up brilliantly with the hard work John Wright has put in.’’ The two have known each other since their playing days and subsequently kept in touch through their coaching stints on the county circuit.

If chosen, Moody believes, his job would be to review what has already been done; check on the leadership of the side and then build from thereon.

One main reason for Wright’s departure is the time he spends away from his children in Christchurch. Moody, however, does not see that become an impediment should he get the job. ‘‘I’ve discussed the issue with my family and am sure it won’t come in the way of my time away from home,” he says.

Interestingly, Moody believes that one needn’t follow the Australian template blindly to become the number one side in the world. Rather, it’s important to factor in the difference in culture and adapt accordingly.

‘‘You have to balance attitude with talent and culture. Combining these qualities in the right measure gives you the desired result’’, he says.