Contenders line up to replace Bracewell

A shortlist for the New Zealand coaching position will be finalised this week as the board aims to fill the vacancy John Bracewell will create in April. Bracewell will head back to the English county Gloucestershire for the 2009 season after telling New Zealand Cricket in May of his plans to leave the post when his two-year contract expires.

Justin Vaughan, the New Zealand Cricket chief executive, told the Dominion Post 10 to 20 "serious candidates" had applied for the job and talks with the coaches would begin within three weeks. "I'm happy with the talent we've got so far," Vaughan said.

"I don't want to go into too much detail but there was a broad range, including people from Australia." Greg Shipperd, the Victoria coach, has won support from Daniel Vettori, the New Zealand captain, while Dipak Patel, the former offspinner, has reportedly applied for the post. Andy Moles, the Northern Districts coach, has confirmed his application.

"I have applied for the position and we'll just see what happens," Moles told Waikato Times. "It'd be a huge honour if I get the opportunity. I have an extensive CV and have coached all around the world."