The Board of Control for Cricket in India is reportedly eager to approach Anil Kumble and VVS Laxman for the position of head coach for the Indian cricket team.
The Sourav Ganguly-led board is looking for options to appoint someone as the head coach after Ravi Shastri’s term ends post T20 World Cup.
In 2016-17, the former spinner Kumble was appointed as the coach of the Indian team for about a year when the Cricket Advisory Committee led by Laxman, Ganguly and Sachin Tendulkar has recommended his name, replacing Shastri.
An internal fallout between captain Virat Kohli and coach Anil Kumble saw the coach resign after the Champions Trophy final defeat against Pakistan.
Along with Kumble, the board may also approach Laxman, who has been a mentor of the IPL side Sunrisers Hyderabad for some years now.
According to the reports, Kumble is the favourite to be brought on board as VVS Laxman will remain in contention.
“Anil Kumble’s exit needs a course correction. The manner in which the CoA succumbed to the pressure of Kohli and removed him, wasn’t the best example set. However, it also depends on whether Kumble or Laxman are ready to apply for the job,” a senior BCCI source privy to the development told PTI on conditions of anonymity.
Moreover, for the BCCI, having a good coach is the first and foremost importance. Indian Legends Kumble and Laxman with their spell in Indian cricket with 100 plus Test matches along with coaching experience would be the appropriate choice. Bringing on a foreign coach would be a second option.
“The criteria for BCCI’s coach’s job will be such that only a select few with a very good record as a player as well as experience of coaching/mentorship can apply for the top job,” the source said.
Asked if Vikram Rathour is in contention, the official said, “He can apply if he wishes to but he doesn’t have the stature to become a head coach of the Indian cricket team.” “He is at best an assistant coach. However, when we select the new coach, he will have a team all by himself. So, let’s wait and watch,” the source concluded.