I thought of giving up the captaincy: Fleming

Mohali, Oct 24 (UNI) All set to lead New Zealand for a world-record 194th time in the crucial Group B Champions Trophy tie against Pakistan tomorrow, indefatigable Kiwi skipper Stephen Fleming admitted there were moments in his decade-long stint at the helm when he thought of giving up the captaincy.

When Fleming take on to the field with Younis Khan for the toss tomorrow, he will better Sri Lankan Arjun Ranatunga's record of leading the side in 193 one-dayers.

''Yes, I've thought of giving it up, at times,'' said Fleming addressing a media conference here today.

''I've never thought of quitting from the team but to give up the captaincy for the betterment of the side is something I've grappled with. Ultimately the buck stops with me in the playing sense and you have to see if your captaincy is hindering or helping your game,'' he said.

A veteran in the business, who seems to have leading the Kiwis forever, captaining India is the toughest job.

''Captaining India is probably the toughest job around. Pressure from fans and number of people who follow cricket,'' he said.

Asked to comment as to who was a better leader -- Rahul Dravid or Sourav Ganguly -- Fleming chose to tread a diplomatic line.

''They have contrasting styles. Both are very strong personalities. Sourav had quite an emotional streak but Rahul seems more calculated and more measured.

''I don't think you should compare. You need to respect what Sourav did -- he brought a lot of spark and passion to the side. In a way he was a little different, because there was always a passive approach from India but Sourav was very confrontational, he said and added, ''Rahul is quite measured. It will be interesting to see over time how they measure up.'' Reflecting on his record 194 games as captain, Fleming said, ''It's nice to achieve that, but I'll be more excited if we win the game and get ourselves into the semi-final. Personal milestones are good to achieve but I'm looking to help achieve the team goal, that is to win tournaments.'' MORE UNI HSB DH BS1741