Cricket News

‘No interest in coaching them…’ – Matthew Hayden’s candid revelation on cricketing giants

Following Justin Langer’s contentious resignation as head coach of the Australian men’s cricket team, Matthew Hayden, ex-Australian cricketer, shockingly stated that he would not even consider taking on the role. During his playing career, Hayden and Langer had a great opening partnership. However, Hayden expressed his strong reluctance to take on such a role in the current Australian cricket scene.

Langer, who became the national team’s head coach in 2018, resigned from his post at the beginning of 2022 after an unstable period characterized by a strained relationship with the playing group. Senior players and Cricket Australia officials had emergency discussions as a result of this breakdown in relations. After this, CA offered Langer a six-month contract extension which then concluded with Langer’s resignation.

Speaking to cricket journalist Melinda Farrell in the latest issue of Wisden Cricket Monthly, Hayden criticized the lack of public support from senior players in the lead-up to Langer’s highly publicised departure. The 52-year-old former opener also took a shot at those players who did not provide direct feedback about their grievances with Langer’s coaching style, referring to them as “cowards.”

Matthew Hayden unveils his stance on coaching after Langer’s turbulent exit!

When asked about the possibility of coaching the Australian men’s cricket team, Hayden stated, “I wouldn’t (coach Australia), no. After Justin and his treatment, I wouldn’t have any part in trying to coach Australia because I just don’t feel that’s something I would enjoy. I love Australian cricket and I love broadcasting on the current cricket team. I think they’re a magnificent team, but in terms of investment, no, it’s not something that I’d even consider.”

Hayden also brought up the topic of the national team’s lack of former all-stars from Australia’s recent cricketing past in coaching or administrative roles. Former Test captains Steve Waugh and Ricky Ponting had been vital in helping to shape the team during Langer’s tenure. In light of Australia’s successful recent past and rich cricketing legacy, Hayden expressed surprise at the lack of former greats holding senior leadership roles in CA.

“What’s quite interesting is that there’s not a former great that is actually at the helm of Australian cricket. Not as a chairman of selectors, not as a coach, not as a board director. At no layer is there leadership that’s got a former great player of Australian cricket operating within that team unit. That, to me, is surprising considering we’ve just come out of three great eras or decades of Australian cricket,” Hayden said.