November 14 Thursday 2002
I couldn't sell out fellow players: Fleming

AUCKLAND: New Zealand Captain Stephen Fleming has described the dilemma he faced in cricket's crippling pay dispute as one of the most difficult periods of his life.

Fleming has broken his silence on the just resolved strike and admitts to being torn between the two parties he is most loyal to - his playing peers and New Zealand Cricket.

Because of his status in the game, Fleming became a central target in the scrap as much in the media as at national cricket headquarters. Threats to his captaincy were raised but he said that as hurtful as all the speculation was, he could never break ranks from the Players Association.

"I spent a lot time alone trying to work things out but essentially nothing could happen till both negotiating teams disengaged," he said. "It wouldn't have been worth captaining a side if I didn't have the trust of the players by selling them out. I couldn't do the job properly so I was damned if I do and damned if I don't."

Fleming set about restoring the game's credibility yesterday and clarifying his position in the Players Association. By mid-afternoon he had conducted 13 interviews but he acknowledged the best way to win back lost loyalty was through the top team's deeds on the park against India. Bridges also need mending with some former players and 
there is his own relationship with NZC.

"There may be bridges to be built between us, but knowing Martin (Snedden - NZC chief executive) we will look to move forward." Fleming said he could not comment on the future of Players Association spokesman Rob Nichol because he was "only one of 128 members".

However, he said he had Nichol's backing to make the approach to NZC which ultimately settled the stalemate. Fleming decided to use former NZC chief executive Chris Doig as the go-between because he was "too nervous" about approaching Snedden direct.

The pair hadn't spoken since the player strike started on October 1, but he said it was an amicable meeting. Fleming, who has led his country in 47 tests and 122 one-day internationals, said during the low times he began looking at opportunities overseas.

"It started off being a humorous idea, but as things progressed the situation took a more serious turn. There was no guarantee there was going to be a resolution and I was talking to contacts overseas. It was very difficult . . . a very sad thought that I might not represent my country again."