John Emburey in Chennai on Saturday

John Emburey, too, checked in at the Connemara. He spoke to The Telegraph for some minutes before heading towards his laptop.

The following are excerpts

 

On arriving to the news that he’s not the frontrunner

Frankly, I’m not disappointed to hear that... The reason being Graham has coached a national team... That’s the reality... I’m sure the best man will get the job…

On his thoughts

It’s the first time that I’m in such a situation... Having to appear for an interview involving a national team... It’s difficult to describe.

On his chances

I believe I can do the job, that’s why I’m here... I’ve worked with England A and was David Lloyd’s assistant in the latter part of the 1990s... I’ve been at Middlesex for a number of years and coaching a national team will be a progression.

On being on the same London-Chennai flight as Ford

We were in different sections... We did interact on landing and wished each other ‘good luck’...

On having said ‘no’ to India’s invitation 25 months ago

Because of family reasons... My daughters (Clare and Chloe) weren’t that old... Now, one has finished university and the other school... Both are firmly behind me as, obviously, is wife Suzie.

On whether he has finally put together a presentation

(Smiles) Yes... It has been a rushed job... I’ve brought the laptop, but I’m not sure whether I’ll use it... Perhaps, I’ll just share my thoughts.

Finally, on whether (if needed) Middlesex will release him quickly

They’re happy for me... I’m sure they will... I reckon it’s tougher for Graham... Our designations are the same (director of cricket), but he’s more into hands-on coaching than I am...