New Delhi: Former Australian cricketer Justin Langer considered the opportunity to become India’s head coach; however, KL Rahul’s warning about the “pressure and politics” associated with the role ultimately deterred him from pursuing the “amazing” position.
Langer, who recently served as the head coach of the Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League (IPL), recounted a conversation with franchise captain and senior Indian team member, KL Rahul.
“You never say never. And the pressure of doing it in India…I was talking to KL Rahul and he said, ‘You know, if you think there’s pressure and politics in an IPL team, multiply that by a thousand; that’s coaching India,’” Langer shared on the ‘BBC Stumped’ podcast.
“That was valuable advice. While it would be an incredible job, I have decided to withdraw myself from consideration,” he added.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has issued a call for new applications for the head coach position, with a deadline of May 27, as Rahul Dravid is expected to step down following the T20 World Cup.
Before his tenure with the Lucknow Super Giants, Langer coached the Australian national team from May 2018 to February 2022, guiding them through the aftermath of the ball-tampering scandal. Under his leadership, Australia won their first T20 World Cup title and secured an Ashes series victory.
Reflecting on his experience, the 53-year-old noted, “It’s an all-encompassing role, and having done it for four years with the Australian team, it’s exhausting. And that’s the Australian job!”
There was speculation that the BCCI had approached Langer’s former teammate and current Delhi Capitals head coach, Ricky Ponting, for the position. However, Ponting has already declined, stating that the role does not align with his lifestyle.
BCCI Secretary Jay Shah clarified on Friday that the board has not approached any former Australian cricketers regarding the coaching role. “We are focused on identifying individuals who possess a deep understanding of the Indian cricket structure and have risen through the ranks,” Shah stated. “It’s crucial that our coach has an in-depth knowledge of our domestic cricket framework to truly elevate Team India to the next level,” he added.
Other notable candidates, such as Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore head coach Stephen Fleming, and Andy Flower, have also withdrawn from consideration. Former India batter Gautam Gambhir is currently considered a leading contender for the position.
