Australian spin legend Shane Warne on Wednesday dismissed media reports that he is interested in taking up the vacant coach’s job with World champions India after South African Gary Kirsten decided against extending his contract.
“Just told on bus — apparently I put my hand up to coach India. Wow — first I have heard of it. Sorry to disappoint but never said that !!!” Warne tweeted, putting to rest all speculations.
Kirsten quit India coach’s post on Tuesday after guiding the Mahendra Singh Dhoni-led side to the World Cup title in Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium last week.
No sooner Kirsten retired, rumours flew thick and fast that the 41-year-old former Australian leg-spinner was interested in the job.
A section of the Indian media had even quoted Warne as saying: “It’s a very difficult job to be India coach. But with India doing so well, it is a lot easier to take over right now than it has been in the past. I’ll enjoy working with the Indian cricket team for sure.”
Warne, who is in India as coach-cum-captain of Rajasthan Royals for the fourth edition of the Indian Premier League, had told reporters on Tuesday that it will be difficult for India to find a suitable replacement for Kirsten, under whom the side reached the pinnacle in world cricket.
Warne also tweeted that he was happy with the team combination of Rajasthan Royals for the upcoming Twenty20 league.
“Very happy with final 18 that will represent the royals in IPL. We have some surprises in store. Also quality senior players-talented youth,” he wrote.
