Zaheer Khan and Lakshmipathy Balaji Considered for India’s Bowling Coach Role

After Gautam Gambhir was appointed as India’s head coach, the BCCI is now looking for a new bowling coach. Sources say that former seamers Zaheer Khan and Lakshmipathy Balaji are being considered for this important job.

“BCCI is discussing the names of Zaheer Khan and Lakshmipathy Balaji for the position of bowling coach. BCCI is not interested in the name of Vinay Kumar,” sources told ANI.

Zaheer Khan is one of the best left-arm fast bowlers India has ever had. He has taken 311 wickets in 92 Test matches and 610 wickets in total across all formats. His vast experience and knowledge make him a strong candidate for the bowling coach role.

Lakshmipathy Balaji is also a well-known name in Indian cricket. He has played in eight Test matches and taken 27 wickets, and in 30 ODIs, he has taken 34 wickets. Balaji’s performances, especially in key matches, have earned him great respect.

The search for a new bowling coach comes after Gautam Gambhir was appointed as the head coach. BCCI secretary Jay Shah announced Gambhir’s appointment and expressed confidence in his ability to lead the team.

“It is with immense pleasure that I welcome Mr. @GautamGambhir as the new Head Coach of the Indian Cricket Team. Modern-day cricket has evolved rapidly, and Gautam has witnessed this changing landscape up close. Having endured the grind and excelled in various roles throughout his career, I am confident that Gautam is the ideal person to steer Indian Cricket forward. His clear vision for #TeamIndia, coupled with his vast experience, positions him perfectly to take on this exciting and most sought-after coaching role. The @BCCI fully supports him as he embarks on this new journey,” Shah wrote on X.

Gambhir, a former left-handed opener, recently guided the Kolkata Knight Riders to their third IPL trophy as a mentor. His appointment as head coach marks a significant change in the team’s coaching strategy, aiming to use his modern cricket insights and leadership skills.

Rahul Dravid’s time as head coach ended after India won the T20 World Cup 2024, beating South Africa by seven runs in the final. Dravid’s leadership played a key role in developing young talent and improving the team’s performance.

As the BCCI looks to the future, choosing either Zaheer Khan or Lakshmipathy Balaji as the bowling coach could bring new ideas and strengths to the team. Fans and cricket experts are eagerly waiting for the final decision, hoping for continued success for Team India.