Reports: Jonty Rhodes may travel with Team India as fielding consultant

The coaching staff of Team India might have another addition. If TOI’s reports are to be believed, Jonty Rhodes might travel to Sri Lanka with the Indian team as a fielding consultant. Currently, R Sridhar is with the team as a fielding coach but Rhodes might also be offered a role in a bid to raise the fielding standards further.

Jonty successful stint in the IPL

The former South African international has been involved with the Mumbai Indian franchise as a fielding coach and his efforts with the boys can be seen on the field. During his tenure with the franchise, Mumbai Indians have won three titles; the most recent one being the triumph this year in May.

Rhodes was hailed as the best fielder in the world during his playing days. The 47-year old has a wealth of experience playing international cricket as he appeared in 245 ODIs for South Africa besides winning 52 Test caps for his country. He, on his fielding alone, could turn up for many sides across the world.

Horses-for-courses policy

The reports further say that instead of having Rahul Dravid as overseas batting consultant and Zaheer Khan as full-time bowling coach, BCCI might stick to having different individuals in both these roles according to the needs of the team. For instance, in India’a tour of England, Jason Gillespie, who has worked with Yorkshire before, could be roped in for a temporary contract of 40 days. Similarly, for tours to South Africa and whilst playing at home, Fannie de Villiers and Zaheer Khan can work with the team.

CoA has reportedly raised eyebrows on the appointments of Zaheer and Dravid. Shastri has expressed his desire to have Bharat Arun as the bowling coach, who has worked with the team before. Currently, Sanjay Bangar and R Sridhar are working with the team as batting and fielding coaches. But a few changes might take place in the course of the next few days.