BCCI invites more applications for the post of Indian coach

Following Anil Kumble’s resignation from the helm, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to invite more applications for the post of the head coach to provide the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) with a wide range of options for picking a suitable candidate.

Kumble, who was given an extension till the Caribbean tour starting June 23 refused to take it after acrimoniously forfeiting his post. The former Indian leggie stepped down from the helm following weeks of speculation in the media. Several reports also claimed of a possible rift between the duo during the India-Australia series. Kumble’s letter also highlighted Kohli’s reservation with his ‘style’ as the reason behind his decision.

It’s also been reported by BCCI officials that another 7-10 days may be given for fresh applications so that other interested candidates with relevant qualification and stature can apply for the job. BCCI had earlier closed the deadline for entries on May 31. Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag is amongst the favourites for the post. The other candidates include the Australian Tom Moody, Englishman Richard Pybus, former Indian fast bowler Dodda Ganesh and former India A coach Lalchand Rajput.

Reason for the second invite

According to Mumbai Mirror, a senior BCCI official told PTI on Wednesday, “Look, when we had invited applications last time, Anil was an automatic entry. That might have prompted a lot of people from thinking that what’s the need to apply when the current coach is doing well and is in the mix,” a senior BCCI official told today.

“Now the situation has completely changed. A lot of people will now be interested knowing it’s an open field,”

Sanjay Bangar will step in and fill the void left by Kumble for the upcoming series. He will act as the interim coach. The Indian team has already left for West Indies without a head coach. Thus it is of utmost importance for the BCCI to appoint a new coach to replace Kumble before the team goes to Sri Lanka on their next tour.