As the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) ramps up its search for the new head coach of the men’s national team, the spotlight falls on several renowned former cricketers. Among the top Indian contenders are VVS Laxman and Gautam Gambhir, emerging as frontrunners after the board initiated the search to find Rahul Dravid’s successor. Additionally, names like Ricky Ponting, Justin Langer, and Stephen Fleming have been reportedly shortlisted by the board.
However, Gautam Gambhir, currently serving as the mentor for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), appears to be the primary candidate on the BCCI’s radar. According to a report in Dainik Jagaran, Gambhir is interested in assuming the role of India’s head coach, despite this being only his first year as KKR’s mentor. Yet, Gambhir has a stipulation before considering the application process.
Reportedly, Gambhir is inclined to apply for the position only if he receives a ‘selection guarantee’. He seeks assurance of being chosen as Dravid’s replacement rather than merely submitting his application for consideration.
The deadline for applying for the head coach’s role is May 27, and it remains uncertain how many potential candidates have expressed interest. While there were reports of the BCCI approaching Ricky Ponting and Justin Langer, the board denied reaching out to them. However, both Ponting and Langer claimed to have been approached but declined the offer.
Should Gambhir decide to apply and assume the role, he would need to step down from his position as KKR’s mentor. The former left-handed batter, who led KKR to two IPL titles, has been instrumental in the franchise’s resurgence this season. KKR’s strong performances in IPL 2024 have bolstered Gambhir’s credentials as a potential head coach for Team India.