In a stunning turn of events following India’s heart-wrenching six-wicket defeat against Australia in the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 Final at the Narendra Modi Stadium, the coaching landscape for Team India seems set for a major shakeup. Contrary to expectations, head coach Rahul Dravid has decided not to seek a contract extension, leaving the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in a state of flux.
Rahul Dravid, who took over the reins as the all-format head coach in November 2021 after Ravi Shastri’s departure, has reportedly conveyed to BCCI officials that he is not interested in continuing his coaching stint with the Indian Team. The conclusion of Dravid’s coaching tenure coincided with the World Cup Final in Ahmedabad, marking the end of an era that held promise for Indian cricket.
The Times of India reported the unexpected development, shedding light on Dravid’s decision and the potential successor to his role. According to the publication, former cricketer VVS Laxman emerges as the frontrunner to take over as India’s head coach. Laxman, who is currently accompanying a second-string Indian side in the upcoming five-game T20I series against Australia, has expressed his interest in the coveted coaching role.
“Laxman wants to become the coach. During the World Cup, Laxman met the top board officials in this regard. He will be signing a long-time contract as the Team India coach and will travel with the players for the upcoming tour of South Africa,” revealed a reliable source within the BCCI to The Times of India.
The decision on Laxman’s appointment is expected to be finalized shortly, adding another layer of intrigue to the post-World Cup scenario. If Laxman assumes the role of head coach, it signifies a new chapter for Indian cricket, with his experience and cricketing acumen poised to shape the team’s future.
Meanwhile, Rahul Dravid is not bidding adieu to the cricketing scene entirely. He has reportedly expressed his intention to return to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) as its chief. The NCA, a prestigious institution in Indian cricket, would benefit from Dravid’s leadership and guidance, setting the stage for the next generation of cricketers.
Despite stepping away from the national coaching role, Dravid is said to be exploring opportunities in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Sources suggest that he is in talks with a couple of IPL franchises for a potential two-year coaching contract. However, the BCCI’s regulations on Conflict of Interest may pose a challenge, as one cannot simultaneously hold the position of NCA chief and coach an IPL franchise.
“The source also added that Rahul Dravid is also in touch with a couple of Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises for a two-year contract as the head coach. However, these reports can’t be said to be true as one cannot be NCA chief and coach an IPL franchise simultaneously as it violates BCCI’s rules,” the report stated.
As the cricketing world awaits official announcements, the focus now shifts to the unfolding dynamics within the BCCI and the imminent decision regarding VVS Laxman’s potential appointment as the new head coach of the Indian cricket team. The T20I series against Australia, where Laxman is at the helm of a second-string Indian side, adds an intriguing backdrop to the unfolding narrative in Indian cricket’s coaching saga.
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