I didn’t approach BCCI, they approached me: Kirsten

Gary Kirsten has said BCCI's initiative to approach him for the post has given him the confidence to be able to do the job properly.

Former South African opener Gary Kirsten, who has emerged as the front-runner for India’s cricket coach, has said BCCI’s initiative to approach him for the post has given him the confidence to be able to do the job properly.

Kirsten said he had discussions with BCCI officials regarding the coaching job and will take a final decision after consulting his family.

“The most important thing was they (BCCI) approached me. I I didn’t approach them, so I suppose from that point of view one can be encouraged that they felt that there’s something I could

offer this team. And that gives me a tremendous sense of confidence to know that I’ve been backed to that amount or level,” Kirsten told ‘Cricinfo’ website on Tuesday.

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The former South African cricketer said the matter was still at the discussion phase and he was yet to receive a formal contract.

“But things should get sorted out relatively quickly either way,” he said.

One when he would be able to take charge, Kirsten said, “Probably early next year. We are actually negotiating if I can join sometime during the Australia series.”

“The most important thing is family. I have got two young kids and it’s a question of seeing them enough and to do the job properly. That’ll be the biggest issue and if we can get around that we can certainly move forward in the discussions. I’ve had a chat with with my wife already and we will take stock when I get back tomorrow, look at it from all avenues.”