Justin Langer expressed curiosity about coaching the Indian men’s cricket team, noting that he had never considered it before but believes it would be an extraordinary role.
The BCCI has invited new applications for the Indian men’s cricket team head coach position, as current coach Rahul Dravid is unlikely to reapply. With a new coach expected after the T20 World Cup 2024, many contenders are expected to vie for the role, including former Australia coach and current Lucknow Super Giants coach, Justin Langer.
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When asked about applying for the job, Langer admitted he hadn’t considered it before but found the idea intriguing. He acknowledged the immense talent in India and described coaching the Indian team as an extraordinary opportunity.
“Well, I am curious. I’ve never ever thought about it. I have deep respect for any international coach because I understand the pressure, but coaching the Indian team would be an extraordinary role. From what I’ve seen with the amount of talent I’ve seen in this country, it would be fascinating,” Langer told the Times Of India.
Langer also discussed the pressures of being an international coach. He shared his experience of moving from an assistant coach to a head coach, highlighting the intense workload and accountability that come with the role.
“I went straight from playing to coaching – as an assistant coach, which is the best coach job in the world. You work about two hours a day, everyone’s your best friend, and you’ve got no accountability. Then you become head coach, oh man, then you work about 16 hours a day. No one likes you. And you’ve got 100% accountability!” the LSG coach said.
I took a break from coaching for two and a half years for the first time in my life (after the Australia stint). I had do my writing, my speaking, I did my board roles. I had complete control. It’s like being a batsman, again, there’s freedom in that,” he added.
Being Australia’s head coach from 2018 to 2022, Langer led the team to a T20 World Cup win and two Ashes victories but faced criticism for his intense management style. Despite successes, he resigned after players reportedly revolted, ending his tenure following unsuccessful contract extension talks.
Last Updated on May 14, 2024
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