Jay Shah the secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) categorically dismissed recent reports suggesting that former Australian cricketers have declined offers to assume the leadership role of Team India after the conclusion of Rahul Dravids coaching tenure post the upcoming T20 World Cup. Expressions of interest for the subsequent coaching position are being welcomed until May 27.
Several candidates have been mentioned, including Ricky Ponting, Justin Langer, Stephen Fleming, and Mahela Jayawardene. Ponting and Langer appeared to acknowledge to being solicited for the post.
Jay Shah made a statement to clarify the situation, as reported by The Indian Express:
“Neither I nor the BCCI have approached any former Australian cricketer with a coaching offer. The reports circulating in certain media sections are completely incorrect.”
Jay Shah
He added:
“Finding the right coach for our national team is a meticulous and thorough process. We are focused on identifying individuals who possess a deep understanding of the Indian cricket structure and have risen through the ranks. It’s crucial that our coach has an in-depth knowledge of our domestic cricket framework to truly elevate Team India to the next level.”
Jay Shah
Ponting recently informed the ICC that he was invited to coach the Indian squad during the present IPL but declined owing to personal problems.
Meanwhile, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) coach Langer allegedly expressed an interest in guiding the Indian squad, but meetings with captain KL Rahul prompted him to rethink.
“No role is more prestigious than that of the Head Coach of the Indian Cricket Team” – Jay Shah
Jay Shah emphasized the profound prestige associated with occupying the coveted coaching position within the vast landscape of world cricket particularly accentuating the team’s unprecedented fan base.
Dravid assumed leadership from Ravi Shastri in November 2021 and orchestrated Indias journey to the World Test Championship (WTC) and ODI World Cup final last year.
“When we talk about international cricket, no role is more prestigious than that of the Head Coach of the Indian Cricket Team. Team India commands the largest fan base globally, enjoying support that is truly unrivalled. Our rich history, passion for the game make this one of the most lucrative jobs in the world.”
Jay Shah
He concluded:
“The role demands a high level of professionalism as one gets to nurture some of the best cricketers in the world and an assembly line of talented cricketers to follow. Catering to the aspirations of a billion fans is a huge honour and the BCCI will pick the right candidate, capable of propelling Indian cricket forward.”
Jay Shah
Team India’s final assignment under Rahul Dravid will be the T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the United States, which begins on June 1.
On June 5, the Men in Blue will face Ireland in New York for the tournament opener.