Langer opts for WA over England coach bid

Justin Langer says he thought long and hard about applying for the England head coach role before deciding to stay with Western Australia.

Langer has re-signed with West Australian cricket for a further two years, with his new deal tying him to the Warriors and Scorchers until the end of 2017/18.

The former Test star was in the running to replace sacked England coach Peter Moores, while more recently his name has been linked with the India coaching role.

Langer confirmed that new England director of cricket Andrew Strauss called him last week to sound out his interest in becoming coach.

“Last Tuesday Andrew Strauss rung me up,” Langer said.

“We had another conversation on Friday night. And I promised him I’d let him know on Saturday if I was interested in being in the process.

“I told him for lots of reasons I’m going to stay in Perth.”

Langer said being able to spend time with his family in Perth was the major factor behind his decision to stay put for the time being.

“As an international coach, you’re basically on the road for 12 months of the year,” Langer said.

“My family is very important to me. I’m pleased I can be back in Perth. I love working here.

“Was it a tough decision? When I followed my gut and my heart it was an easy decision.

“If I was listening to my head, it was probably a hard decision.”

Langer said WA players were happy to hear the news he was staying.

“I got a few hugs and high fives yesterday from the boys, which made me feel really good,” Langer said.

Langer’s former Test teammate Jason Gillespie, who is currently at the helm of county side Yorkshire, remains the hot favourite to be appointed England’s next coach.

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