Mumbai: BCCI Secretary Jay Shah has dismissed assertions that the Board approached any former Australian cricketer for the role of India’s head coach, which will become vacant following Rahul Dravid’s departure after the upcoming T20 World Cup.
While reports indicate that Dravid has declined a third stint, former Australian cricketers such as Ricky Ponting and Justin Langer have reportedly declined approaches for the prestigious position.
“I want to clarify that neither I nor the BCCI have approached any former Australian cricketer for a coaching role. Reports in certain media outlets are entirely incorrect,” Shah stated in a formal declaration.
Ponting and Langer currently serve as head coaches in the Indian Premier League for Delhi Capitals and Lucknow Super Giants, respectively.
Shah emphasized the meticulous nature of the coach selection process for the national team, highlighting the Board’s focus on identifying candidates deeply familiar with Indian cricket structures and who have advanced through the ranks. He hinted at the possibility of an Indian coach succeeding Dravid.
“The next coach must possess extensive knowledge of Indian domestic cricket, a criterion essential to elevate Team India to new heights,” Shah asserted.
Speculation surrounds former batsman Gautam Gambhir, currently mentoring Kolkata Knight Riders, as a leading candidate for the position.
