Cricket-India unsure over choice of Kirsten as coach

By N.Ananthanarayanan

NEW DELHI, Dec 5 (Reuters) - Former India players and cricket lovers have expressed reservations over the appointment of former South Africa batting stalwart Gary Kirsten as new coach of the national team.

The 40-year-old former opener, a prolific scorer who played 101 tests until his retirement in 2004, was confirmed to take over as the new coach for a two-year term.

Kirsten succeeds former Australia skipper Greg Chappell, who quit after 18 months following India's shock first-round exit from the one-day World Cup in March.

Former test opener Chetan Chauhan hoped Kirsten would communicate well with the players to overcome a lack of top level coaching experience.

"It's going to be a big challenge for him," Chauhan told Reuters. "But with his playing experience, he should manage. "The only thing is egos should not clash," he said.

"At this level the main thing is motivating players. He should become a friend, philosopher and guide to them."

Kirsten should also avoid any repeat of controversies that marked Chappell's tenure.

"Chappell was a typical Aussie, too blunt, he made a few mistakes," Chauhan said.