MS Dhoni to Lead BCCI’s Effort to Onboard Stephen Fleming as India Head Coach | Reports

May 21, 2024 0 906

MS Dhoni is expected to help the BCCI persuade Stephen Fleming, the Chennai Super Kings coach, to become India’s head coach despite his initial hesitation due to other commitments.

With the deadline looming for applications for the India men’s cricket team head coach position, the BCCI has reportedly turned to MS Dhoni for assistance in persuading Stephen Fleming to consider the role. Fleming, renowned for his Chennai Super Kings legacy with five IPL victories, shares a deep connection with Dhoni.

Despite BCCI’s interest, it has been reported that Fleming remains uncertain due to the extensive travel demands of the contract till 2027. Hindustan Times cited a BCCI insider noting Fleming’s reservations, akin to Dravid’s initial hesitancy before persuasion.

Fleming’s global T20 coaching commitments, including four teams, raise concerns about balancing work and family.

“Fleming hasn’t said no. He has expressed his concerns about the tenure of the contract, which is nothing unusual. Even Rahul Dravid wasn’t keen in the beginning. He was persuaded. It shouldn’t be a surprise if the same thing happens with Fleming. And who better than MS Dhoni to do the job?” a BCCI source was quoted as saying by the Hindustan Times.

“Opening channels with Dhoni during the IPL was not the right thing to do, but now it may be worth a shot,” the source added.

Several prominent names, such as Gautam Gambhir, Justin Langer, and Mahela Jayawardene, have been linked to the head coach position since the BCCI officially began its search. Recently, former cricketer Harbhajan Singh has also expressed interest. With Rahul Dravid opting not to reapply, the cricket board intends to restart the selection process. It remains uncertain whether Harbhajan will ultimately submit an application.