Virender Sehwag has shared why he prefers coaching in the IPL rather than taking up the role of Team India's head coach. With the Indian cricket team recently appointing Gautam Gambhir as the new head coach after Rahul Dravid’s successful tenure, which concluded with the 2024 T20 World Cup win, Sehwag has explained why he isn't interested in the position.
Sehwag mentioned that while he is open to coaching an IPL team, the demands of being Team India's head coach are too high at this stage of his life. "If an IPL coaching opportunity comes my way, I'd definitely consider it. But for the Indian team, it would mean returning to the same routine I had for 15 years. Coaching India requires being away for 8-9 months a year, and my children, who are 14 and 16, need me now. Both play cricket for Delhi—one as an opening batter and the other as an off-spinner—and I want to spend time helping them with their game," Sehwag said in an interview with *Amar Ujala*.
He highlighted that the main challenge of a full-time role with Team India would be the lack of time for his family. In contrast, the IPL season lasts only 2-3 months, providing flexibility for retired players like Sehwag to stay involved in cricket without long-term commitments.
Sehwag's stance mirrors reports suggesting that Rahul Dravid might return to his former IPL team, Rajasthan Royals, as a mentor for the 2025 season, showcasing the appeal of the shorter IPL schedule for former players looking to balance their careers and personal lives.