New Zealand team under scrutiny after dismal run

New Zealand Cricket chief executive Justin Vaughan will lead a review of the national team's structures and performances after they were thrashed 5-0 by India in a one-day series earlier this month.

The series defeat against an understrength Indian side extended New Zealand's losing streak in one-day matches to 11  -- the Black Caps also lost 4-0 to Bangladesh in October -- with the World Cup on the sub-continent two months away.   

New Zealand also lost the test series against India after a crushing defeat in the third match following two draws on batter-friendly pitches.  

"A range of matters will be discussed relating to team performance, leading to recommendations for consideration by the New Zealand Cricket Board," Vaughan said in a statement on Wednesday.                                           

"New Zealand Cricket is committed to creating an environment where the Black Caps can succeed and to do that we need to have a robust review process."      

Vaughan said the review, which would include interviews with players and team management, would take about a week to  complete.  

Coach Mark Greatbatch had already said on his return to New Zealand from India he would stand down if it would help the side, while captain Daniel Vettori said he expected his position to also be examined.  

Vettori's role as a selector has also been questioned by former players and local media, who argue he has taken on too  much and should concentrate on playing.                                           

Vettori said earlier on Wednesday he would miss the three Twenty20 matches against Pakistan at home this month to rest his injured back after a heavy workload in India.                                           

New Zealand will also play two tests and six one-day internationals against Pakistan in January and early February  before both sides head to the World Cup, which begins on Feb 19.