I’d really love to get into coaching, says Shane Watson

What’s the story?

Royal Challengers Bangalore all-rounder Shane Watson, who endured one of his worst IPL seasons in 2017, expressed his desire to become a coach in the future.

Speaking to Wisden India, the former Australia international said, “For me, at some stage, I’d really love to get into coaching because I love to help people, I love the game of cricket so I really want to get into coaching. So, whether it’s a good experience or one that hasn’t provided much success, it’s a huge learning experience for me for my future career if I get a chance to coach somewhere.”

“I love to help people out so it will be nice to be able to coach at some stage, I’m not sure how or when, but hopefully it comes through soon,” he added.

In case you didn’t know...

Watson retired from international and first-class cricket in 2016 and since then has freelanced for various T20 franchises around the world. After the IPL, he will next be seen playing in the Caribbean Premier League.

The heart of the matter

Wisden India caught up with Watson at an event held at the Padukone-Dravid Centre for Sports Excellence in Bangalore on Tuesday. The Aussie revealed that his biggest challenge has been to try and find some form despite not playing international cricket anymore. According to him, he was a much better IPL player when he was playing international cricket.

Extra Cover: IPL 2017: Shane Watson admits to feeling guilty about letting RCB down

Watson was the stand-in captain for RCB in the absence of Virat Kohli in the beginning of the tournament. But owing to his poor form, he could not consistently find a place in the playing XI. In the seven matches that he played, he managed only 64 runs and four wickets.

What’s next?

RCB will play their last game of IPL 10 against the Delhi Daredevils at the Kotla. Both the teams will be eager to end their campaign with a win. For Watson, the Caribbean Premier League will be the next big assignment, where he will play for St Lucia and share the dressing room with the likes of David Miller, Lasith Malinga and Darren Sammy among others.

The tournament begins on August 4, when Watson’s Lucia take on the Trinbago Knight Riders in the opening game.

Author’s Take

For those who have followed Watson’s career closely, it is evident that he has been one of the finest all-rounders in world cricket. He has been a colossal name in the IPL as well. With the experience that he brings to the table, he can go on to become one of the best cricket coaches in the future.