Virender Sehwag reveals he is not keen on coaching the Indian team

The former Indian cricketer spoke about what stops him from taking on this coveted role.

Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag recently revealed his interest in coaching in the Indian Premier League (IPL) while sharing his ambition for the Indian men’s cricket team. After parting ways from all forms of cricket in 2015, Sehwag served as a mentor of Punjab Kings before leaving the franchise in 2018. Rumors are that two of his former Indian teammates, Yuvraj Singh and Rahul Dravid, might be returning to Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals, respectively, to coach for IPL 2025.

Sehwag talks about the nature of the job.

His inclination stems from the nature of the job. The IPL lasts roughly two months, which allows him time to manage his work-life balance. The same, he says, isn’t possible with the Indian cricket team, as the Men in Blue are on the ground most of the year. He said that if he becomes Team India’s head coach, there is no way he will be able to cope with its requirements, especially given the amount of travel involved in the position.

“Not with the Indian cricket team, but with the IPL.”

In an interview with Amar Ujala, Sehwag said, “Not with the Indian cricket team, but if the IPL presents me with a coaching opportunity, I can surely have a look at it. If I become India’s head coach, I’ll have to return to the same routine I went through for 15 years. Playing for the Indian team requires you to stay on the road 8-9 months a year. My kids are 14 and 16, and they need me. Both play cricket for Delhi. One is an opening batter, and the other an off-spinner. I need to help them with cricket and spend time. If I become the India head coach, staying away from them would be my biggest challenge. I will not be able to give time to my children. But yes, if there is a coach or mentor role available in the IPL, I can take it up.”

Sehwag, the challenge for players is bigger.

Sehwag said Gambhir’s role as Team India head coach will not be as challenging due to the presence of established players, proven match-winners, and a more than able coaching staff featuring Morne Morkel and Abhishek Nayar.