Langer in consideration as LSG look for new head coach

Justin Langer could be in line for an opportunity in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He has been linked to the Lucknow Super Giants, and if negotiations go well, he might take charge of the team from the next season. Cricbuzz understands discussions are underway between the parties regarding a possible association.

While neither the LSG management nor Langer himself has confirmed the ongoing negotiations, sources within the IPL suggest that the former Australian coach and the franchise have held several rounds of discussions. Langer has previously led Australia to the Twenty20 World Cup victory in 2021 and guided the Perth Scorchers to three Big Bash League titles in the first four years.

The franchise management declined to comment on the potential coaching staff change. Currently, Langer (52) is not committed to any coaching assignments.

If an agreement is reached, Langer will succeed Andy Flower, whose two-year contract with the Sanjiv Goenka-owned franchise concluded with the IPL 2023. However, there have been no discussions regarding other changes in the LSG support staff, and Morne Morkel, Jonty Rhodes, and Vijay Dahiya are expected to continue as bowling, fielding, and assistant coaches, respectively.

Under Flower's guidance, the team led by KL Rahul performed reasonably well, reaching the playoffs in both seasons but fell short of making it to the final. They finished third in both seasons.

Meanwhile, coaching changes are expected in other IPL teams as well. Teams that have not performed too well in the league are reportedly seeking new coaches, and there is speculation that some prominent names might get the boot. However, the Kolkata Knight Riders, who finished seventh in the last season, are expected to retain their current setup, led by Chandrakant Pandit.