WELLINGTON. Mar 2: New Zealand cricket selectors turned down captain Martin Crowe's offer

io resign after his team's dismal performance against Australia in the first Test, the Dominion newspaper reported today, reports Reuter,

Selection panel convenor Don Neely said Crowe had the full backing of the panel

New Zealand's defeat by an innings and 60 runs in the first Test against Australia at Christchurch was their third successive Test defeat against different countries. The match ended on Sunday, one day early.

Crowe was quoted by Wellington's Evening Post as saying that while he wanted to stay on as captain he could accept a decision to have replaced.

"I would like to carry on as New Zealand captain if I can because I want to sort out the

problems Ihc side is having."

But it is not working at the moment and I am prepared for anything I can haw no arguments with any decisions the selectors might make." Crowe said

Neely confirmed Crowe did offer lo step down during discussions at Christchurch

Maybe that was an option among the many discussed but as far as wc (the selectors) arc concerned Martin Is the best man for the job and we stand behind him and the team." Neely said.

Neely said Crowe was looking for a solution to the fact that New Zealand has had only one Test win since 1990.

Crowe was asked to con template standing down as New Zealand captain after the Kiwis dismal 2-0 home Test series loss lo England.

Instead he stayed in charge as New Zealand produced some thrilling cricket lo reach the World Cup semifinals.