India's poor overseas performance surprises former India coach John Wright

John Wright coached the Indian national cricket team from 2000 to 2005.

Former India coach John Wright has expressed his surprise over India’s poor performance in overseas matches, and feels that the team could do much better.

“It surprises me actually. You have to try and be strong at home and away. Sourav (Ganguly), Rahul (Dravid) and Sachin (Tendulkar) were very keen to win away from home. They were very special,” said Wright who led India to wins in Australia, England and Pakistan.

“New Zealand is generally a difficult place to tour, most teams find it tough. New Zealand has some good youngsters in the team who are playing really well.”

Wright is in India, and was seen watching the Karnataka-Rest of India Irani Cup match at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore on Monday. He will be in the city for the auctions for Indian Premier League’s seventh edition.

India’s loss at Auckland was their ninth loss in 12 matches, something that concerns Wright.

“It’s about the first innings — when you concede a lead of 300, it’s very difficult to come back into the game. They had an opportunity to win the Test in the second innings. They needed one more partnership towards the end. The last 100 runs are always difficult to chase. It will be a good Test in Wellington. India will be keen to win it and square the series,” said the Mumbai-Indians coach.

“India will have to play well in the first innings in the second Test. Given the conditions at Wellington, there will be a result. It is a fair wicket, the ball moves around.”

“New Zealand have been pretty consistent. It is good for New Zealand cricket. It is good to see the youngsters are coming through,” Wright concluded.