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Former New Zealand cricketer John Wright is a likely contender for the national coaching job when it becomes vacant later this year.

Wright, who left last night for England to coach his third season with Kent, said he would be interested in applying for the Black Caps' job.

Incumbent national coach Steve Rixon finishes his third year when the New Zealand team tours England after the World Cup.

He is unlikely to continue after taking some time before deciding to go on for another year this season.

``If the opportunity arose I'd like to take things a stage further from county level to international level. But I'm sure the position will be highly sought after,'' said Wright.

``I'm a New Zealander first and foremost and want them to succeed and be a world-class side.''

Wright, who played 82 tests for New Zealand, including 14 as captain, said he felt he had a passion for the job after his first two seasons with Kent, and did not feel it was a grind. The Kiwi job is likely to be advertised later in the year with an appointment before New Zealand's next tour to India in October and November. Wright's immediate priority is lifting Kent up the table after a middling season last year.

In 1997 he helped guide it to second in three of England's four competitions and was the Coach of the Year. ``We missed the wicket-taking contribution of Paul Strang.''