Lalchand Rajput appointed as the head coach of Afghanistan cricket team

Former Indian cricketer Lalchand Rajput has been appointed as the head coach of the Afghanistan Cricket team, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) today confirmed. They had received quite a few applications from all around the world. Along with Rajput, former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif was another prominent name in the list. Both of them were shortlisted for the final round of interview. However, Rajpoot edged past Kaif to be appointed by the selection committee.

ACB Chairman Nasimullah Danish said, “Mr. Rajput, who has coached the Indian Under-19 Cricket side as well as the Mumbai Indians franchise in the IPL, 54-year-old’s experience is a key asset for Afghanistan Cricket,”

Rajput played in two Tests and four ODIs for India between 1985 and 1987. He had an illustrious career as an opening batsman for Bombay alongside Sunil Gavaskar.

After hanging his boots as a player he served as the joint honorary secretary of the Mumbai Cricket Association. He was famously the manager of the Indian team that won the inaugural ICC T20 World Cup in 2007 and has also been the coach of the India Under-19 team in the past. Rajput was also the coach of the Mumbai Indians franchise in the first edition of the Indian Premier League in 2008.

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“Mr. Rajput is technically and professionally strong coach in cricket, i am sure his presence with Afghan national cricket team will benefit the team; he will be joining team in Scotland, Ireland and Netherland tour.” Danish added.