Former South Africa opener Gary Kirsten, who has emerged a frontrunner for the job of India cricket coach, says the Board of Control for Cricket in India's initiative to approach him has given him confidence.

Kirsten said he had discussions with BCCI officials about the coaching job and will take a final decision after consulting his family.

• Gary Kirsten next India coach?

"The most important thing was they [BCCI] approached me. I didn't approach them, so I suppose from that point of view one can be encouraged that they felt that there's something I could offer this team. And that gives me a tremendous sense of confidence to know that I've been backed to that amount or level," Kirsten told Cricinfo on Tuesday.

• Kirsten may join Team India on Dec 3

The former South Africa cricketer said the matter is still at the discussion stage and he is yet to receive a formal contract.

"But things should get sorted out relatively quickly either way," he said.

Asked when he would be able to take charge, Kirsten replied, "Probably early next year. We are actually negotiating if I can join sometime during the Australia series.

"The most important thing is family. I have got two young kids and it's a question of seeing them enough and to do the job properly. That'll be the biggest issue and if we can get around that we can certainly move forward in the discussions.

"I've had a chat with with my wife already and we will take stock when I get back tomorrow, look at it from all avenues."