‘I do think I’ll enjoy coaching’ – AB de Villiers responds when asked about taking up India head coach job

AB De Villiers (Photo Source – AB De Villiers)

After the conclusion of the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024, the Indian team will undergo a change in their coaching staff. Indian head coach Rahul Dravid is all set to part ways with Rohit Sharma and Co. after the end of the ICC event in the United States and the Caribbean.

The BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) is searching for the next candidate to replace Rahul Dravid. The board has already invited applications for the same.

Various former cricketers like Ricky Ponting, Stephen Fleming, and many more were approached for the job, with former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir reported to be the frontrunner as well. With the hunt still going on, former South Africa cricketer AB de Villiers was asked if he would like to coach the Indian team in the future.

“I absolutely have no idea. I do think I’ll enjoy coaching. I think there’s certain elements I won’t enjoy as much, which I will have to learn. With time, anything is possible and I can think on my feet and learn as I move on,” De Villiers told News18.

I think there are elements of a coaching job that I’ll enjoy a lot: De Villiers

The Indian team reached the ODI World Cup 2023 final under Rahul Dravid, but were outplayed by Australia in the summit clash. The BCCI also recently stated that they are looking towards a long-term option, and a coach who could lead the side across formats.

Also Read: Neither I nor the BCCI approached any former Australian cricketer for India head coach role: Jay Shah

Speaking of the same, De Villiers reflected on how he would appreciate certain aspects of the coaching job, and how the learnings that he has had over his career could be crucial for a young player.

“But I think there are elements of a coaching job that I’ll enjoy a lot. Things that I’ve learned over the years, the maturity that I’ve got now at the age of 40, looking back, a lot of things look a lot clearer when I look back at my career. So those kind of learnings could be valuable for some younger players, even some senior players,” De Villiers added.