Emburey says he's ready for India challenge

John Emburey, one of the contenders for the job of India's coach, admitted that he wasn't surprised when he was contacted by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and added that he was looking forward to the challenge if appointed.

Emburey is currently in a two-horse race with Graham Ford, the former South African coach, and both have been invited for discussions with the Special Committee of the BCCI in Chennai on June 9. The board announced that it would take a final decision after that.

"I knew from someone that my name was being considered for the job," Emburey told The Times of India. "I am ready for the job. I can take up the offer as the timing is right."

Emburey was a surprise contender after Dav Whatmore, who recently served as coach of Bangladesh, expressed his interest in the post and was widely predicted to take over. However, a seven-member panel appointed by the board, which met on June 4 in Bangalore, ruled out Whatmore as a candidate and went on record saying that another 'foreigner' is being considered, apart from Ford. Sunil Gavaskar, one of the panel members, reportedly recommended Emburey.

The coaching credentials of Emburey, a former England offspinner, have been questioned as he was sacked as coach of his home county Northamptonshire with a year of his contract remaining. He went on to coach Middlesex and his stint there wasn't fruitful either. However, he believes his past experiences and ability to communicate with the players will stand him and India in good stead, despite his modest track record as coach.

"I have enough experience of coaching in England," he said. "Also, I have been involved with England A and also assisted David Lloyd in 1996-97. Striking a rapport, winning their trust is one of the key roles of my job. India has immense talent. My job would be to help create a system so that a conducive environment would be there for all to enjoy the work."