Ricky Ponting, the head coach of Delhi Capitals in the IPL, recently disclosed that he was approached to succeed Rahul Dravid as the next head coach of the Indian men’s team but declined due to lifestyle reasons.
Ponting’s name is among several being considered, alongside Justin Langer, Stephen Fleming, and Gautam Gambhir, for the India head coach role, with Dravid’s tenure set to conclude after the T20 World Cup.
The application deadline is on May 27.
“I’ve seen various reports about it.
Normally, these things surface on social media before I’m even aware, but there were a few private discussions during the IPL to gauge my interest,” Ponting told ICC.
“I would love to coach a national team, but considering other commitments and wanting some time at home…taking on the Indian team role would mean relinquishing my IPL involvement, and it’s a full-time job for about 10 or 11 months a year.
As much as I’m drawn to it, it doesn’t align with my current lifestyle and priorities.
“I’ve heard a few other names mentioned as well.
Justin Langer’s name came up recently, Stephen Fleming’s has been mentioned, and Gautam Gambhir’s too.
However, considering the reasons I’ve outlined, it’s unlikely I’ll pursue it,” he explained.
Ponting, who has had his family with him during his coaching tenure with DC, mentioned that he discussed the job offer with his son Fletcher.
“My family and kids have been with me at the IPL for the past five weeks, and they come every year.
I mentioned the Indian coaching offer to my son, and he said, ‘Just take it, dad.
We’d love to move there for a few years.’
They adore being in India and the cricket culture there, but it doesn’t fit my lifestyle right now.”
Meanwhile, Andy Flower, the head coach of RCB, confirmed that he hasn’t applied for the India head coach role.
“I haven’t applied, and I won’t be.
I’m content with my role in the franchise game at present.
I’m thoroughly enjoying it, working with some incredible organizations, so I’m happy where I am.”
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