 | RICHARDS FACTFILE 121 Tests 8,540 runs @ 50.23, 24 100s, 45 50s, best: 291 187 ODIs 6,721 runs @ 47.0, 11 100s, 45 50s, best: 189* |
Test great Sir Viv Richards has hinted that he might be interested in becoming India's new coach. The former West Indies skipper does not have a formal coaching qualification.
But during a visit to Delhi, he said: "What I have is the experience of playing in 121 Tests. I know I have a sound knowledge of the game."
India are looking for a new coach after New Zealander John Wright gave up the job following the recent home series against Pakistan.
Current Bangladesh coach Dav Whatmore and Australians Greg Chappell, Geoff Marsh and Tom Moody have all been linked with the job.
Although he refused to give a direct answer about his possible interest, Richards said: "There is nothing wrong in having a foreign coach.
"The game is getting globalised and this way we can learn from each other."
Richards, meanwhile, hailed Indian batsman Sachin Tendulkar as a "legend".
Tendulkar has hit 34 Test centuries, a record he shared with compatriot Sunil Gavaskar, but did not manage one against Pakistan. "He may be looking to play the way he started his career but that is not always possible," said Richards.
"Tendulkar is now a very mature player. He is now more into a fortifying role and not flamboyant, but you must respect that he has grown older."
He added: "If Tendulkar left cricket right now, he would still be a legend. He carried India's mantle for a long period. He has done his job and done it well."