Ashish Nehra explains why he didn’t apply for India’s Head Coach position

Gautam Gambhir has been appointed as the new head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team, effective July 9, following the end of Rahul Dravid's contract in June 2024. 

Gambhir, who had previously excelled as a mentor for KKR during the IPL 2024, emerged as a strong candidate for the role after a successful interview process conducted by the Cricket Advisory Committee (COC).

Former Indian cricketer and head coach of the Gujarat Titans, Ashish Nehra, was also seen as a viable candidate by many fans and cricketing experts. However, Nehra did not apply for the role.

In an exclusive interview at a local sports platform, Nehra shared his reasons for not pursuing the position. 

“I never really considered it. My children are still young, and while Gautam Gambhir's children are also young, everyone has different priorities. I am content where I am and not inclined to commit to a nine-month travel schedule,” Nehra said.

The former pacer has been a key figure with the Gujarat Titans for the past three IPL seasons, making history in 2022 as the first Indian to win an IPL title as head coach. 

In his second season, he guided the team to the IPL final, where they were narrowly defeated by Chennai Super Kings, finishing as runners-up.