Bangalore, Sept 09: Indian cricket team coach John Wright today said the TVS Salve Challenger Series starting here tomorrow would offer a great opportunity to fringe players to stake their claim for a berth in the national side. "The three sides -- India seniors, India 'A' and India 'B' -- are evenly balanced and matched. It offers a great opportunity for fringe players to stake a claim... It is a competitive situation," Wright told reporters here.

Wright has been named coach of India seniors, led by Sourav Ganguly. Sandeep Patil is the coach for Anil Kumble- led India 'A' while Ashok Malhotra will guide Rahul Dravid-led India 'B'. Dravid said it was the beginning of an exciting season for Indian cricket adding the players were raring to go out in the middle after a long break.

Kumble said the sides were evenly balanced and he expected some good, hard cricket in the competition.

Wright said special emphasis was given this time to ensure all three sides were well matched as the selectors were keen on "even competition".