Cricket: Former coach Lees in market again

By Terry Maddaford

GISBORNE - Former New Zealand cricket coach Warren Lees intends throwing his hat into the ring when the coaching job is up for grabs again.

"I'll probably put my hand up - but without huge expectations," said Lees, who was at the helm for three years from 1989 until he opted out of the Sri Lankan tour following a bomb blast in Colombo - a decision which cost him the job but one which he would make again in the same circumstances.

Lees hopes New Zealand Cricket bosses will cast their net at home rather than looking overseas again when the incumbent Steve Rixon hands the reins on after this year's World Cup.

While paying tribute to Rixon's work - in particular the series win over India - Lees said he would like to see a Kiwi at the helm when the next appointment is made..

"I understand John Wright and John Bracewell have signed for a further two years with their English county sides. If they are the type of coach [New Zealand Cricket] want to look at I would be happy to fill the gap until they were available.

"I think we are developing a New Zealand ethic among the six coaches involved with the Shell sides. They are similar in their thinking and I believe are heading in the right direction.

"I enjoy being involved again and the company of all the coaches at this level. It was really enjoyable working with the Canterbury players in the southern conference team. Their input was invaluable."

Lees, who quit his fulltime role with Otago Cricket to take a position at Otago Boys' High School and to coach the Otago Colts, said the series win over India was a huge success for the New Zealand team and particularly admirable was the way in which they developed a fighting spirit.

"Every coach is quite different. I think Steve Rixon has changed in the time he has been in charge. He had to take a step back, have a look at things, make subtle changes and go with them.

"It is easy to stay with a cricket culture when you are winning," said Lees. "The real test comes when you lose. That's when it becomes a challenge for the coach. That's the challenge I enjoy most."

Lees is adamant the selectors should stay with a tight group of 15 players for as long as they can, including the World Cup.