Ashish Nehrabrought humour to a serious topic when discussing the possibility of becoming India's head coach. Speaking at the CAB Annual Awards ceremony in Kolkata on September 7, the Gujarat Titans head coach made a tongue-in-cheek remark about the personal sacrifices the role would demand.
Nehra's comments highlighted the significant time commitment required for international coaching positions. According to reports, the role would require him to be away for more than eight or nine months a year,
a reality that few coaches manage to sustain over extended periods.
"First things first, I would have to check with the High Commission — that is my wife! Otherwise, I might get a divorce. International coaching involves travelling for eight or nine months a year. It is not easy. Everybody has seen that, when it comes to international coaching, not too many people have lasted more than three or four years because of the kind of demands and travelling involved. But again, we’ll see," Nehra said as quoted by Outlook.
Nehra's measured stance on the India role
When asked directly about his ambitions for the India role, Nehra adopted a measured approach. He clarified that he does not view the position through the lens of personal ambition or long-term planning.
"I would not use the word 'ambition'. I never plan things like that. Yes, it would be a great honour and privilege, but I never plan for things like that," said Nehra.
Nehra has been Gujarat Titans' head coach since 2022, during which time the franchise has won the IPL trophy once and finished as runners-up twice. Nehra also stressed that he does not take individual credit for Gujarat Titans’ success, insisting that a team’s achievements should not be attributed solely to the coach or captain. For now, he remains content in his role with the franchise, while leaving the door open to a potential international coaching opportunity in the future.
Gautam Gambhir currently serves as the head coach of the Indian cricket team. India's next assignment is a three-match T20I series against Afghanistan, which begins on Sunday, September 13, in Delhi.
