Langer tipped to succeed Kirsten

Former Australian opener tipped to succeed Gary Kirsten

Langer tipped to succeed Kirsten

Former Australian opener tipped to succeed Gary Kirsten

Is Justin Langer India's next cricket coach? He could well turn out to be, if talk about him being one of the candidates to succeed Gary Kirsten is true.

MiD DAY has learnt that a few senior players of the Indian team and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) discussed the issue of finding a successor to Kirsten who would bid adieu at the end of the World Cup.

"I haven't spoken to BCCI or any of the Indian players on this issue. It is very flattering to hear that the Indian players feel I am capable enough to take up such a big post. Most people say it is the toughest job in the world," Langer told MiD DAY from Colombo.

"If BCCI thinks I am capable of such a big role, it augurs well for my confidence. I have a lot to give back to the game, coaching the most popular cricket team in the world would be great," he added.

In November 2009, Cricket Australia appointed Langer as assistant coach of their Test team under Tim Nielsen, as a batting coach and mentor.

Asked if he would take up the role if it is offered to him, Langer said: "Yes, I would. But, who knows? I wouldn't want to think or talk about it till the World Cup ends. My primary duty right now is with the Australian cricket team. I am obliged to that duty at the moment. I am not contracted with Cricket Australia, my role as batting consultant ends after the World Cup."

Langer will run into the Indians when the latter take on Australia in the second quarter-final at Motera on Thursday. "We would have loved to face India in the final. That would have been a dream finale, not just for us Australians, but I am sure even for the Indian public," the former opening batsman said.

"The India-Australia rivalry has emerged as one of the best of our times. Both teams pick up the intensity every time they get into the park.

"However, just facing them in a World Cup is big enough because if we get past them, then we would be a step closer to winning four consecutive World Cups.

"It doesn't get any bigger than that. Both sides are still in the process of ironing out some flaws. I am sure a big-ticket clash like this would get the best out of both the teams."

In 105 Tests, Langer scored 7696 runs at an average of 45.27. However, he wasn't a part of any of Australia's successful World Cup campaigns between 1999 and 2007.

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