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New Zealand Cricket wants its next Black Cap coach to be based in Christchurch.

NZC chief executive Chris Doig said yesterday that would be the ideal given the development of the High Performance Centre at Lincoln University.

Out-going coach Steve Rixon commuted from his Sydney base during his three-year term, but Doig said things had changed since the Australian's appointment.

``Now the HPC has developed and is central to our plans. The New Zealand players come and go through there as do major association coaches and players at camps.

``It is appropriate for the national coach to be based there if at all possible.''

The job was first advertised in New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, and England at the weekend, along with the position of team manager, to replace John Graham, who is also stepping down.

Doig said if the best coach candidate could not relocate that would not necessarily preclude him.

Doig said job descriptions are being sent to New Zealand coaches in England, John Wright (Kent) and John Bracewell (Gloucestershire), who have already expressed interest.

``They wanted to know what we were doing and the time frame because they have their futures to think of,''Doig said.

Also being advised of the position are English counties, Australian States, and South African provinces, plus an advertisement placed in the International Cricketer. The next publication of that magazine means that overseas applications will not close until June 11.

Doig said a short-list would be compiled and interviewed by a panel of about five, comprising NZC management, independent people, and a board representative. A recommendation will go to the board for its July meeting.

``We have to make a decision by then. That successful applicant will have to let his employers know the position and we want someone starting in September.''

In response to a query whether a New Zealander would be favoured for the position, Doig said if two candidates were of equal standing preference would be given to a New Zealander. New Zealand's first tour under the incoming coach is to India in October and November.