Wright keen to settle scores against New Zealand

India may have been beaten badly on their tour to New Zealand last season, but John Wright sounded a stern warning to Stephen Fleming and his team ahead of the two-Test series in India in October 2003. "We've got a few scores to settle with them."

The Indian team - especially their much-vaunted batsmen - had a miserable time in the seaming conditions in New Zealand, losing both Tests inside three days, and winning only two out of seven one-day internationals. However, in the spin-friendly conditions at home, New Zealand might find the Indian team an entirely different proposition. Wright, whose contract as coach was extended by a year after the Indian team's spectacular display in the World Cup, was confident that his team would be ready to tackle New Zealand.

"The boys have some time off after the World Cup and they should be hungry for runs and wickets." Scoffing at suggestions that his loyalties might be divided, Wright said: "My job is to make sure the Indian team and its fans get good results. That's the only way I think about it."

Since Wright took over as coach, India's record at home is a formidable one: they have beaten Zimbabwe, Australia, England and West Indies in Tests, and haven't lost a single series. India's one-day performance has been even more impressive, with wins in the NatWest Trophy in England and the Champions Trophy in Sri Lanka, before losing to Australia in the World Cup final.

India will have an opportunity to avenge that defeat as well, when Australia join India and New Zealand for a triangular one-day tournament in November.