'No idea exactly what's happening on that front' - Virat Kohli on Rahul Dravid becoming India coach

India skipper Virat Kohli said he had no idea or clarity when he was quizzed about Rahul Dravid being the frontrunner for the coach of the India team. Earlier in the day, certain reports confirmed that Dravid will the coach, for two years until the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup. He will take over from Ravi Shastri, who earlier stated his wish to relinquish the post after the culmination of the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup.

Initially, the former India cricketer was reluctant to take up coaching on a full-time basis. But later a last-minute discussion with BCCI president Sourav Ganguly and secretary Jay Shah changed his mind and he has reportedly agreed to coach the team. India skipper Kohli, who was seen interacting with the media ahead of the global event, was asked about Dravid’s appointment and whether he had an idea about it.

“No idea exactly what’s happening on that front. No detailed discussion with anyone yet,” Kohli said when asked about Dravid’s appointment,” Kohli said.

Dravid’s appointment has not come as surprise as he brings a plethora of experience with him. He is currently the director of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) and also has experience in coaching at the Under-19 level. Under his guidance, India won the tournament in the 2018 edition. Dravid also coached the team this year during the Sri Lanka tour and won the ODI series 2-1 with a second-string team.

Rahul Dravid to get a two-year coaching contract

Dravid will now be with the team for two years. He is likely to be joined by bowling coach Paras Mhambrey. Batting coach Vikram Rathour retains his job. The BCCI wanted a strong candidate to replace Shastri and amongst several other candidates, Ganguly and Jay Shah were keen on having Dravid onboard. The board was also clear on having a smooth transition after few players retire from the team.

It is a well-known fact that Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara and Ishant Sharma are all 30-plus age. At some point in time, some of the players may retire or wish to play only one format. Hence the BCCI were keen that the transition period should be smooth. Dravid has a fair idea about coaching at the grassroot level and hence the board thought he is a suitable candidate.