India Coach Drama! Gambhir Silent as BCCI Neglects Deadline

 BCCI to Ignore Deadline as Gautam Gambhir Silent on India Head Coach Role, No Notable Foreign Applicants: Report

BCCI is willing to wait to find India's next head coach since there is still uncertainty about Gautam Gambhir and no other prominent foreign names have applied.

BCCI is in no rush to reveal the list of applicants for Team India's head coach role or even discuss it. The May 27 (Monday) deadline for applications isn't causing any worry for the Indian cricket board. They are prepared to take their time to find a suitable candidate. Rahul Dravid's contract ends after the T20 World Cup, and he doesn't intend to continue, which has led to endless speculation about his successor.

Bollywood Actress Juhi Chawla with BCCI and KKR Mentor Gautam Gambhir

Bollywood actress Juhi Chawla, along with her family, posed next to Jay Shah, BCCI and KKR mentor Gautam Gambhir at the end of IPL 2024 (AFP).

The BCCI is not concerned with media reports and social media discussions. They may delay the decision even after the T20 World Cup ends, as the next assignment is a series against Zimbabwe, where all senior players will be rested. The team can be coached by the NCA staff led by VVS Laxman.

BCCI Source Speaks on the Timeline

"The deadline is fine, but the BCCI brass wouldn't mind taking more time before deciding. The team will be busy with the World T20 for most of June. After that, seniors will be rested from tours of Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe, where any senior NCA coaches can join the team. So what's the hurry?" a BCCI source told PTI anonymously.

Laxman Unwilling to Take Senior Team Role

The PTI report added that Laxman was BCCI's first choice to replace his longtime colleague Dravid, but the former India batter was not interested in joining the senior team.

No Notable Foreign Applicants

Many foreign names like DC head coach Ricky Ponting, LSG head coach Justin Langer, CSK head coach Stephen Fleming, and MI director of cricket Mahela Jayawardene were suggested, but none have applied. "It is understood that no notable foreign name has applied for the post, especially after BCCI secretary Jay Shah made it clear that the Board wants someone who has risen through the ranks and understands the domestic structure," the report added.

The constant travel for 10 months a year is believed to be the biggest reason for the lack of interest from big names. It was different before the IPL era when noted former cricketers wanted to be involved with Indian cricket. Now, they are content with their roles in the IPL.

Gautam Gambhir a Strong Contender but Uncertain

The only significant name still in the running is Gautam Gambhir. The former India opener's reputation increased after Kolkata Knight Riders won the IPL this season under his leadership. However, it is still unclear if the KKR mentor has officially applied for the role.

"While neither party has said anything publicly, it seems the BCCI doesn't have many quality options available at the moment," the report added.

Shah Rukh Khan's Influence and Senior Players' Opinions

Additionally, KKR principal owner Shah Rukh Khan has a strong bond with Gambhir, and it is not easy to leave an IPL team that has been a part of the former India opener's identity.

Another crucial aspect to consider is how senior India players, currently in New York, feel about Gambhir potentially replacing Rahul Dravid.