Virender Sehwag, one of India’s most explosive openers, has firmly stated that he won’t be accepting the role of head coach for the Indian cricket team.
While the former India opener has expressed interest in coaching within the Indian Premier League (IPL), he has no intention of taking on the demanding role with the national team.
Sehwag, who retired in 2015 and later served as a mentor for Punjab Kings, prefers the shorter, less intensive schedule of the IPL, which allows for a better work-life balance.
BET NOW: Exclusive sign-up offers and bonuses when you bet on cricket action
Sehwag’s decision against coaching Team India is primarily due to the extensive travel involved. This job requires being on the road for eight to nine months each year, a commitment that Sehwag is not willing to make at this stage in his life.
“If I become India head coach, then I’ll have to return to the same routine which I went through for 15 years. Playing for the Indian team requires you to stay on the road 8-9 months a year,” Sehwag said in an interview with Amar Ujala.
With two teenage sons who are aspiring cricketers, Sehwag emphasizes the importance of being present for his family.
MORE: Have Pakistan ever been whitewashed at home in a Test series?
“If I become the India head coach, staying away from my kids and family would be my biggest challenge. I will not be able to give time to my children,” Sehwag added.
In contrast to the national team, Sehwag is open to coaching in the IPL, where the commitment is much shorter—typically lasting around two months. This allows him to maintain a better balance between his professional and personal life.
MORE: Have Bangladesh defeated India in Tests?
“But yes, if there is a coach or mentor role available in the IPL, I can take it up,” stated Sehwag.
Shakib Al Hasan (Photo: Video grabs) Former Bangladesh captain and veteran allrounder is using an interesting technique to get his stance and head position rig
Ravichandran Ashwin (BCCI Photo) CHENNAI: Ravichandran Ashwin may be at the fag end of his glorious Test career but the veteran all-rounder is still operating
India vs Bangladesh 1st Test, Day 3 LIVE: Welcome to our live coverage of Day 3 of the 1st Test between India and Bangladesh, from Chepauk, Chennai! After Ravic
Rishabh Pant marked his Test comeback with India's first match of the series against Bangladesh in Chennai, which is the first red-ball international for the wi