(Source X)
The BCCI is preparing to open applications for Team India’s support staff positions, aiming to finalize new coaches in the near future.
Recently, Team India bid farewell to their previous backroom staff. Following the conclusion of Rahul Dravid’s tenure as head coach post the T20 World Cup, batting coach Vikram Rathour, bowling coach Paras Mhambrey, and fielding coach T Dilip also departed from their roles.
The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) has already conducted interviews for the head coach position. Former Indian cricketers Gautam Gambhir and WV Raman were interviewed last month, with Gambhir emerging as the frontrunner, as per media reports.
Gambhir, who recently shared a heartfelt farewell video from Eden Gardens to Kolkata Knight Riders fans, served as the team’s mentor during their successful IPL campaign this year. His decision to apply for the India head coach role has sparked interest. However, negotiations between Gambhir and the BCCI regarding his salary are reportedly ongoing, delaying the official announcement according to The Indian Express.
Gautam Gambhir will select his support staff.
Despite the BCCI’s plan to invite applications for Team India’s support staff, Gautam Gambhir will wield full autonomy in selecting his own team of assistants. Reports suggest Team India might forgo appointing a batting coach, relying instead on Gambhir’s extensive expertise. As one of India’s most accomplished openers across all formats, Gambhir’s coaching experience primarily stems from his mentorship role in the IPL, notably guiding the Lucknow Super Giants to consecutive playoff appearances in 2022 and 2023.
However, Lucknow failed to replicate this success after Gambhir departed for KKR, where he played a pivotal role in their IPL triumph, ending a decade-long title drought. With Gambhir now entrusted with Team India’s coaching reins, the BCCI remains optimistic about his ability to replicate his IPL success at the international level. Currently, India is engaged in a five-match T20I series in Zimbabwe, overseen by VVS Laxman as interim head coach.
