• Sportzyverse
• Cricket news
• 05/24/2024
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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has initiated the search for the next head coach of the senior national men’s team, with Rahul Dravid’s tenure set to conclude in June 2024. The BCCI is actively inviting applications for the position, which is expected to span approximately three years. Recent remarks by BCCI secretary Jay Shah, indicating a willingness to consider overseas candidates, have fueled speculation about potential successors.

Among the names floating, Justin Langer stands out prominently. Langer, who recently coached the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, brings significant coaching experience. He previously guided the Australian national team through turbulent times post-Sandpaper Gate, reclaiming the Ashes and clinching the T20 World Cup 2021. Alongside Langer, notable contenders such as Gautam Gambhir, Ricky Ponting, and Stephen Fleming have also emerged in discussions.

Justin Langer Refuses India Head Coach Role Considering KL Rahul’s Harsh Statement

Despite being a prime candidate, Langer recently addressed speculation regarding his interest in coaching the Indian cricket team. During an appearance on BBC’s Stumped podcast, Langer expressed his reluctance to undertake such a pivotal responsibility at present. His comments sparked controversy within the cricketing fraternity.

“It would be an amazing job, (but) I have (ruled myself out). I also know that it’s an all-encompassing role, and having done it for four years with the Australian team, honestly, it’s exhausting. And that’s the Australian job,” Langer said.

Langer also recounted a revealing conversation with KL Rahul, captain of the LSG, which shed light on the challenges associated with coaching the Indian team. According to Langer, Rahul emphasized the immense pressure and political stances that come with the role, surpassing even the demands of the IPL. These insights from Rahul provided a sobering perspective on the realities of the Indian coaching role, prompting introspection on Langer’s part.

“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. That was a good bit of advice, I guess. It would be an awesome job, but not for me at the moment,” Langer concluded.

https://x.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1793695962529206774

With Langer ruling himself out, the spotlight shifts to other potential candidates. The decision will be crucial for India’s future cricketing success.