`We're here to make history' - Ashley Ross

Ashley Ross, New Zealand's coach, is a man on a mission. Speaking to The Times of India just before New Zealand's second tour game in India, Ross said, "We are here to make history. We have been preparing for this tour for a long time. Expectations are high."

Ross wasn't particularly concerned about his two missing stars, Chris Cairns and Shane Bond. "This is a good opportunity for those who made the trip," he said. "We have some fantastic players right here."

Ross downplayed the likelihood of New Zealand struggling in Indian conditions. "We are a good team," he said. "That, along with our ability to adapt to different conditions, is our strength. We have been playing all over the world from Sydney to Colombo and are used to it. It doesn't matter much who the opponents are."

Ross agreed that Indian conditions favour spinners, but said, speaking to reporters after a practice session, that New Zealand's medium pacers would nevertheless be effective. "If the medium pacers can make inroads into the Indian batting, then there is need for only one spinner. We have high hopes on Vettori on this tour."

He also praised Stephen Fleming's captaincy. "Fleming is an outstanding captain as he takes full advantage of planning before a big match and uses his cricket acumen to his benefit. He leads from the front whenever his team is fighting with its backs to the wall."