On Monday, the Board for Control of Cricket in India (BCCI) invited applications for the new post of head coach for the national Indian men’s team. The current Indian head coach Rahul Dravis will end after the ICC men’s T20 World World 2024 in June. Hence, the richest cricket board has set a deadline of May 27 for applying for the top job.
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The Board for Control of Cricket in India also states the most notable requirements of the new head coach:
- They are looking for a long-term candidate who could serve Indian cricket for three and a half years from July 1, 2024, to December 31, 2027. The India team will play the Champions Trophy in 2025 and the ODI World Cup in 2027. That is why they need a coach who can work for a long time.
- The applicant should have played 30 tests and 50 ODI.
- The applicant is a full member test playing nation for at least 2 years.
- The applicant can be the Head Coach of an Associate member /IPL Team or Equivalent International League/First Class Teams/National A team for at least a minimum of 3 years.
- The applicant should be below 60 years.
- They must have BCCI Level 3 Certification or equivalent
- The Candidate must be willing to manage the work pressure and work expectations. They need one who can build a world-class Indian cricket team that can deliver the best performance in all conditions and formats.
- It is also important that the new head coach inspire current and future generations of cricketers with their game format.
There is a deadline to apply. Candidates need to apply by 6 PM IST on May 27, 2024. The complete selection process will go through several review processes, later followed by the personal interviews and assessments of shortlisted candidates by the BCCI itself. In a recent interview, BCCI secretary Jay Shah also stated that Rahul Dravid can re-apply for the position too. He is eligible to re-apply for the post of the head coach. He can start with a new contract, but his tenure will not extend automatically. Additionally, Jay Shah had not ruled out the prospect of hiring a foreign coach for the senior men’s national team. Duncan Fletcher was the last foreign head coach for the Indian national team. For a long time, the BCCI has been hiring only Indian national team players, as our last coaches were Ravi Shastri, Anil Kumble and Rahul Dravid. Well, Mr Shah does not say anything about whether the new head coach will be Indian or foreign. It is on the CAC, who will hire the right candidate.
Head Coach Historical Overview
The position of the head coach has seen various eminent personalities contribute to the development of the Indian cricket team over the years. From the old time of Keki Tarapore in 1971 to today’s Rahul Dravis, the role has evolved significantly. Their training methods, strategic planning, etc have evolved. In addition, the requirement for the position of head coach by the BCCI is also evolved.
- John Wright (2000-2005): The first foreign head coach of the team, who brings a professional approach to the team. Under his vision, the performance of the Indian team is improved at the international level.
- Gary Kirsten (2008-2011): He is also a great head coach for the Indian national team. Under his vision, India achieved the milestone of winning the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup
- Ravi Shastri (2017-2021): His journey as head coach is also notable for the Indian national team. His aggressive cricketing style has led to various overseas victories, including Australia’s tour in 2018-2019.
- Rahul Dravid (2021-2024): Rahul Dravid, one of cricket’s most respected figures, started his journey as head coach in November 2021, which will end in June 2024. His vast experience and deep understanding of the game bring a notable change in the team’s playing style.
Now, the BCCI is looking for a new head coach for the Indian cricket team. The role of the head coach is more than just a trainer, he is a mentor and a strategist, responsible for building team morale, developing young talent, and ensuring the team is well-prepared to face the challenges of international cricket.