New Delhi: The hunt for the head coach intensifies at the Indian camp as Rahul Dravid is set to step down from the post following the end of India’s T20 World Cup campaign in June. Dravid’s contract was originally valid till the 2023 ODI World Cup. However, post the World Cup there have been no talks between BCCI and Dravid for any contract extension. Moreover, as per reports, the legendary batter is also unwilling to continue for some unspecific personal reasons.
According to reports from The Hindu, Dravid had already informed the higher authorities about his unwillingness to continue even before the start of the IPL season. However, BCCI president Jay Shah has kept the “door open” for Dravid and the latter can also apply for the same. Moreover, many senior players have shown their willingness for Dravid to continue on the Test side. But, the former skipper has decided to move ahead.
BCCI is considering Stephen Fleming as the potential successor of Rahul Dravid as head coach. [Express Sports]
– They are waiting whether Fleming applies for the job as there is a hectic schedule. pic.twitter.com/YTzvLUPxeF
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) May 14, 2024
What are the probable names who can fill in Dravid’s shoes?
The million-dollar question that hovers around the national camp is who can fill in Dravid’s shoes once the legendary batsman decides to step down. In the absence of Dravid, the most likely replacement for India would have been the current head coach of NCA, VVS Laxman. However, according to several reports, even Laxman is unwilling to become a contender for the coveted position.
Interestingly, according to The Indian Express, BCCI has kept an eye on the former New Zealand skipper and the current head coach of Chennai Super Kings, Stephen Fleming to take charge once Dravid leaves. Fleming has a strong resume at his back with 5 titles with CSK since he took over as head coach in 2009. Moreover, he also led his side successfully for two CL T20s (now defunct).
Naturally, BCCI will be much more interested in trying out the New Zealander given his record in the past as well as India’s successful ventures with foreign coaches like Gary Kirsten. But, both BCCI and Fleming know that leading an IPL side and leading a full-fledged national team across all three formats is altogether a different thing.
Some other surprising names
Some other names that can come on the table for BCCI are that of Gautam Gambhir and Ashish Nehra who have done fairly well for their franchises. The former has proved his mettle in both LSG and KKR while the latter has done a fairly decent job for GT. Another surprising name which can be considered by BCCI is that of Justin Langer. After winning the Ashes and the T20 World Cup, Langer can expect himself to rank right up in the charts alongside other contenders. But given the tryst with Australian coaches and the entire Ganguly and Chappel controversy, will BCCI take the risk again to entrust the reigns at the hands of an Australian?
Justin Langer on Rahul Dravid pic.twitter.com/mtfa0smGuC
— RVCJ Media (@RVCJ_FB) May 14, 2024
BCCI has laid down the qualifications required for the post of Indian head coach on Monday (i.e. 13th May) night. These rules and guidelines apply to all interested and eligible candidates. Now, it is to be seen amidst all the commotion and rumours who emerges as the best fit for the Men in Blue to lead in the forthcoming tournaments.
