5 top contenders who can replace Ravi Shastri as India's head coach

5. Mahela Jayawardene

The Sri Lankan cricketing giant has been one of the finest match-winners who can snatch matches from the jaws of defeat. Mahela Jayawardene has a scorecard speaking on behalf of him. His tally reads out 11,000 odd runs in red-ball cricket and 12,650 runs in the ODI format of the game.

Needless to say, the right-hander was the backbone of the Sri Lankan batting unit. Later, he padded up for the second innings of his life as a coach. The job calls for prime responsibility coupled up with accountability. The 43-year-old has shown some glimpses of brilliance over the years coaching the five-time champions Mumbai Indians.

Under his guidance, the Rohit Sharma-led side registered the fifth trophy in the 13th edition of the IPL. Hence, Mahela’s name remains on cards and can be tested for the top-brass position. Time will speak whether his practical skills laced up with knowledge and team management prowess impresses the eyes of Indian selectors at the Indian cricket governing body, BCCI.