Farokh Engineer shuns BCCI’s decision to invite applications; says it’s not a clerk’s interview

Former Indian wicketkeeper Farokh Engineer has criticised the board’s decision of seeking applications for the post of head coach. He believes that instead of inviting applications, the board should already have someone earmarked. The former India international is also in favour of extending Anil Kumble’s term at the helm.

With Kumble’s contract approaching its deadline, BCCI started inviting applications to replace the former Indian leggie. A number of applicants have been shortlisted with Virender Sehwag, Lalchand Rajput, Craig McDermott, Tom Moody and Richard Pybus making the cut. There have also been rumours of a possible rift between Kumble and captain Virat Kohli. Virender Sehwag is now being speculated to become the next coach of the Indian team.

Disagrees with the application process

Speaking to the Hindu prior to the Indo-Pak clash at Edgbaston, Engineer said, “I don’t know about a new coach. I’ve spoken to Tom Moody and Virender Sehwag. Both were very cool about it. But I don’t think they should apply for a job like that.”

“They should be invited by the BCCI. You know, you’re not going for a clerk’s interview or applying for a purchasing officer’s post to see who is better. They should already know who the best person for the job is and then take a decision,” he said.

Engineer, who played 46 Test matches for India, made his debut in 1961 for the national side. The veteran wicketkeeper is also a Padma Shri awardee and has won the Indian Cricket Cricketer of the Year award in 1965. He was also a part of the “Rest of the World” squad that played matches against England in 1970 and against Australia in 1971-72. Engineer currently acts as a match referee in the Indian Premier League.

“One of the many reasons of Team India’s success in the last one year or so is Kumble’s dedicated work from behind the scenes. Kumble is someone who deserves a new contract and if he is retained by the Board, he will surely be an adept choice to lead the team from the front,” Engineer concluded.