I wouldn’t coach Australia after what they did to Justin Langer: Matthew Hayden

Former Australian cricketer Matthew Hayden has firmly rejected any involvement in coaching the national team due to the contentious exit of close friend Justin Langer in 2022. Langer's departure was marred by rifts with players and management, leaving Hayden unwilling to take part in such a scenario.

Langer received a mere six-month contract extension after the 2021/22 season, which he turned down. He had led the team through their challenging period post "sandpaper-gate," securing Ashes triumph in England, home victory, and their inaugural T20 World Cup win. Regarding the possibility of coaching the Australian team, the 52-year-old commented on his willingness. 

“I wouldn’t (coach Australia), no. After Justin and his treatment, I wouldn’t have any part of trying to coach Australia because I just don’t feel that’s something I would enjoy. I really love Australian cricket, and I really love broadcasting on the current cricket team. I think they’re a magnificent team, but in terms of an investment, no, it’s not something that I’d even consider,” Hayden told Wisden Cricket Monthly.

‘There’s not a former great that is actually at the helm of Australian cricket’ – Hayden

The former Australia opener previously served as a consultant for the Pakistan cricket team during the recent T20 World Cup in Australia, aiding them to reach the final, though they fell to England. However, the former Australia southpaw's remarks extended beyond his friendship with Langer. He expressed his concern about the absence of former cricket champions within the Australian cricket team's structure.

“What’s quite interesting is that there’s not a former great that is actually at the helm of Australian cricket. Not one. Not as a chairman of selectors, not as a coach, not as a board director. At no layer is there leadership that’s got a former great player of Australian cricket operating within that team unit. That, to me, is surprising considering we’ve just come out of three great eras or decades of Australian cricket,” Hayden commented.