The BCCI seeks a new head coach after Rahul Dravid opted not to renew his contract, with Ricky Ponting and Stephen Fleming reportedly emerging as possible frontrunners.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is searching for a new head coach for the national team after Rahul Dravid informed them of his decision not to reapply for the position following the upcoming T20 World Cup in June 2024.
Reports suggest that Dravid wants to spend more time with his family. VVS Laxman, currently the head coach at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), is also unlikely to pursue the role, with the BCCI reportedly preferring to maintain the existing setup at the NCA.
Reportedly, former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has emerged as a leading candidate for the prestigious role. Having served as head coach for both the Delhi Capitals (since 2018) and Mumbai Indians (2014–2016), where he led them to victory in the 2015 IPL season, Ponting boasts extensive experience within the Indian cricket scene. The BCCI has reportedly reached out to him informally.
Chennai Super Kings’ head coach, Stephen Fleming, is also under consideration, but initial responses have not been encouraging. The demanding schedule, which requires the coach to be with the team for nearly 10 months a year, is a significant factor.
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This development opens the door for a possible foreign coach, a scenario not seen in India for a considerable period. John Wright, who guided India to the 2003 ODI World Cup finals, and Gary Kirsten, who masterminded India’s triumph in the 2011 World Cup, are notable past examples of successful foreign coaches for the Men in Blue.
The deadline for applications is May 27th, 2024. The coming weeks will be crucial as the BCCI determines the future direction of the Indian cricket team’s leadership.
Last Updated on May 15, 2024
