“I am not in the mood to travel for nine months” – Ashish Nehra opens up on reluctance to coach Team India

Former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra has opened up on why he didn’t put his hat in the ring for Team India’s coaching role. Nehra, who is Gujarat Titans’ head coach in the IPL, said he doesn’t want to travel for nine months in a year. It is well known that India has a hectic schedule and the team is mostly on the road.

Nehra led Gujarat Titans to glory in IPL 2022 under the captaincy of Hardik Pandya. Furthermore, the Titans made it to the final of IPL 2023 but could not cross the last hurdle against Chennai Super Kings. 

Meanwhile, Gautam Gambhir has taken over the coaching baton from Rahul Dravid. 

Ashish Nehra said on Sports Tak, “I never thought about it. My children are still young. Gautam Gambhir also has young children, but everyone has different ideas. That’s why I am happy where I am. I am not in the mood to travel for nine months.”

Nehra admitted that coaching India is different from coaching in the IPL. The former pacer said Gautam Gambhir has all the experience and will be the right fit for the head coach role.

“The challenges are always there and it is a great opportunity also. It is a different kind of role compared to IPL. Gautam is always very passionate about the game, and has so much experience. Every coach and captain thinks differently,” said Nehra in the same video.

“With Gambhir, I can confidently say with his passion, experience, he is going to make big changes, and he will do well. One thing is for sure. He will never change as a person. Have seen him all these years, he is the same. He is very up front and passionate,” he added.

The upcoming limited-overs series against Sri Lanka will be Gautam Gambhir’s maiden assignment as the team’s head coach.