Kiwis can be licked says Chanders

Chanderpaul said he was excited to again be named to lead the touring party to New Zealand in February and March.

Thrust into the role as skipper early in 2005 when Brian Lara was forced out by a contract dispute, Chanderpaul led the team to eight Test losses, two draws and just one victory.

"Last year was a tough year for me, but I am always willing to fight for West Indies cricket," Chanderpaul told The Associated Press yesterday. "As captain of West Indies I understand there will be some criticism and that comes with the territory. "Leading the West Indies is an honour and a pleasure for me. We all have to come together and focus on one goal— we have to be all heading in one direction. It’s a matter of going out every

time and trying to lead from the front.

"The detractors will always be there but as a captain I have to be focused and concentrate on my job and my team."

After West Indies was swept 3-0 in Australia in November, the calls were louder at home for a new face to lead the team. But on Tuesday, the West Indies selectors again retained Chanderpaul, second only to Lara for experience with 91 Tests.

"The coach (Bennett King) gave a lengthy explanation of what went on, and what didn’t go on, during the tour of Australia late last year. His recommendation was that we continue with Chanderpaul as captain," said convener of selectors Joey Carew.

Chanderpaul said he was confident West Indies would do well in the three Tests and five One-Day Internationals.

"New Zealand are a tough opponent and will be even tougher at home," he said.

"They can be beaten but we have to do the right things right all the time. We have to match them and be even better than they are. However it’s not going to happen unless we get it right on and off the field. That’s the way I see it."