Former Australia bat Stuart Law knows the sub-continent all too well. In 2009, he was appointed Sri Lanka’s assistant coach and then he took charge as head coach when Trevor Bayliss left shortly after the 2011 World Cup.
He then had a nine-month stint with Bangladesh during which the country reached the final of the Asia Cup. Such has been his experience that the 46-year-old isn’t remotely shy to throw his hat into the ring for the Indian team’s coach’s job. Now with the touring Australian ‘A’ team, he shared his views with the media.
Excerpts:
On coaching India: I would love to. Especially to work with some of the greatest cricketers in the world. I have been in the sub-continent quite a bit. The first experience isn’t always your most memorable. But as your understand the place, learn the culture and learn how it works, its quite enjoyable. So if someone wants to knock on the door and have a chat about it I will be more than happy to sit down and listen.
On the upcoming India-Sri Lanka series: It’s always good. India is seen as Sri Lanka’s big brother. But having said that India, after not having played well against Bangladesh, have a point to prove as well. They have got new leadership. Virat Kohli led beautifully in Australia. If he continues with that aggression India will make a formidable opponent.
On the new aggressive outlook of both teams: Look if (Tillakaratne) Dilshan opens the batting, anything is possible. I think it’s a more attractive way of playing cricket. In the sub-continent the crowds don’t come to watch Tests. They come for ODIs and T20s. If you consider the skill levels of these players and if they take the aggressive mindset into Tests, things can change. We Australians try and score enough runs quickly to get more time to bowl the opposition out. There is no reason why India can’t play like that. They have got highly skilled batsmen, clever bowlers and great spinners. Fielding has also improved so much. It’s the same with Sri Lanka.
On Kumar Sangakkara: He is not only one of the greatest players playing the game, playing for a small nation like Sri Lanka, who are very passionate, but he is proud to represent its people. One of those guys who never really shied away from hard work. Away from cricket, he is one hell of a human being. He wanted to make sure that he left a legacy. Now he can retire with great pride and with a record that’s enviable and as good as anybody in world cricket.
