Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have announced former Australian opener and head coach Justin Langer as their head coach for next year's Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Langer was named coach as former Zimbabwe batter Andy Flower's two-year contract came to an end.
“Lucknow Super Giants are on the journey of building a great story in the IPL. We all have a role to play in that journey and I am excited to be a part of the team moving forward,” Langer was quoted as saying in LSG’s press release on July 14.
LSG have been consistent in the two seasons they have been part of so far. In IPL 2023, they reached the playoffs where they were eliminated by Rohit Sharma-led Mumbai Indians (MI). LSG reached playoffs despite losing the services of their captain KL Rahul due to an injury which required surgery. In his absence, stand-in captain Krunal Pandya led the franchise to the last four.
"I have enjoyed my interaction with JL. He seems to bring in a huge amount of aggression besides a lot of clarity. His name was suggested to me by Gautam. When I interacted with him, I was very impressed. I am very happy that he has become part of the LSG," the franchise owner Sanjiv Goenka told Cricbuuzz.
Langer has had a good record as head coach of Australia. Taking over after the sandpapergate scandal from Darren Lehmann, Langer helped Australia retain the urn in iconic Ashes 2019 which ended in 2-2 draw. Before that, he had helped Perth Scorchers win three Big Bash League titles during his four-year tenure.
Langer made his Test debut in 1993. He has scored 7,696 runs from 105 Tests at an average of 45.27 including 23 centuries and 30 half-centuries. The southpaw made a formidable duo with his opening partner Matthew Hayden.
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