BCCI Revamps Coaching Staff Selection Process including Indian Cricket Team Head Coach, Opens Doors for Foreign Coaches

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is undergoing a structural revamp, with significant changes to the selection process for the head coach of the Indian cricket team.

Currently, Rahul Dravid holds the position and will continue to do so until the T20 World Cup scheduled for June 2024 in the United States and West Indies. However, after the tournament, the head coach position will be up for grabs.

Jay Shah said, “We will call for applications in the next few days, Rahul Dravid’s tenure is coming to an end in June. If he wants to re-apply, he can.”

In a significant move, the BCCI has announced that the position will be advertised publicly. Anyone with relevant experience and leadership qualities can apply, including foreign coaches. This marks a departure from tradition, as the last foreign coach to lead India to a World Cup victory was Gary Kirsten in 2011.

The decision comes after careful consideration. While Ravi Shastri’s tenure as coach saw India perform exceptionally well, particularly on overseas tours, so the question is should he apply back for head coach position of Indian cricket team. 

The BCCI is seeking a long-term solution according to Jay Shah. “We are looking for a long-term coach for three years. There is no precedent of different coaches for different formats in Indian cricket. Besides, we have a number of all-format players. Ultimately, it will be the Cricket Advisory Committee’s (CAC) call. I have to implement what they decide,” Jay Shah said.

The ideal candidate will be someone who can guide the team for the next three years, fostering a winning mentality and nurturing young talent.

Interestingly, both Rahul Dravid and Ravi Shastri are eligible to reapply if they wish to extend their tenures.

The BCCI’s revamp extends beyond the head coach position. The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) will also be advertising for a new selector. Additionally, the backroom staff, including support staff and selectors, are likely to undergo a complete overhaul based on discussions with the new head coach.

This move signifies the BCCI’s commitment to a fresh start. We can expect a new team of individuals leading Team India from the dugout, with the collective aim of achieving cricketing success.

On a separate note, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah also revealed plans for the Indian team’s departure for the T20 World Cup. Players whose IPL teams are eliminated will leave in two batches – one on May 24th and the other after the IPL 2024 final on May 26th.