BCCI to Seek Applications for New Head Coach of Indian Men’s Team

The race for the head coach position of India’s men’s cricket team is heating up as the appointment process is set to begin in the coming week. Jay Shah, the secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), confirmed that current coach Rahul Dravid can reapply if he wishes to extend his tenure.

Dravid, who took over in November 2021, was given a short-term extension until the T20 World Cup after his initial two-year contract expired. Shah revealed that the new head coach will be offered a contract until the ODI World Cup in 2027, emphasizing the BCCI’s preference for a long-term coaching solution.

Unlike the recent trend in international cricket of having separate coaches for different formats, the BCCI is unlikely to opt for a split coaching role. Shah stated, “We are looking for a long-term coach, for three years. There is no precedent of different coaches for different formats in Indian cricket.”

Before the head coach applications are invited, the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) will finalize the appointment of a national selector. The CAC, led by former batter Ashok Malhotra, will meet in a week’s time to announce the new selector, with Mithun Manhas and Nikhil Chopra being the main contenders.

Shah also addressed the controversy surrounding the Impact Player rule in the Indian Premier League, stating that discussions with stakeholders will take place after the T20 World Cup in June. Additionally, speculation has arisen about Shah potentially replacing Greg Barclay as the International Cricket Council (ICC) chair, to which Shah responded, “Let there be speculation. Let me be here. Am I not doing a good job?”

The upcoming weeks are sure to be filled with anticipation and excitement as the future of Indian cricket leadership unfolds.