Reports: BCCI keen on replacing Ravi Shastri with an Indian coach

Indian coach Ravi Shastri had previously confirmed that he would be stepping down from his position post the T20 World Cup 2021. With him not expressing the desire to continue with the duties further on, there have been discussions on a few key names that could probably replace Shastri. His stint as head coach will end in November and thus the BCCI is putting its thinking hats on for selecting a new coach for the men’s team.

Certain high-profile names like Ricky Ponting and Mahela Jayawardene have been making rounds as Shastri’s replacement. However, according to reports, it is believed that the board is looking for an Indian for the crucial job. A BCCI source had opened about this matter and had confirmed the same.

“The new head coach will be an Indian. Unlike the IPL, the Indian coaching job is a round-the-year job, and man-management works out a lot better with an Indian coach,” a BCCI source told HT.

It was also been reported that along with Shastri, bowling coach Bharat Arun, fielding coach R Sridhar will also be making ways for new candidates. However, there hasn’t been any recent update on batting coach Vikram Rathour’s future with the Indian team.

We have had conversations with leading Indian players: BCCI official

After the news that Shastri wouldn’t extend his contract came out, there have been rumors that BCCI is looking to bring the former coach Anil Kumble back on the duty. Kumble’s stint with team India had ended when he had resigned from the post back in the year 2017.

It is been believed that Sourav Ganguly wanted him back in the Indian set up but the other board members did not give a green signal to the decision. The BCCI has also seemed to have had discussions with Rahul Dravid. However, the NCA chief had politely denied the offer. It is understood that Dravid looks forward to concentrating on junior cricket and the NCA.

“We have had conversations with leading Indian players. Although their suggestions are not binding, there is no point in creating a potential disturbance in the dressing room,” the BCCI official added.