Ponting, Fleming, Gambhir or Laxman, who will be the next head coach of Team India?

The BCCI has officially invited applications for the head coach for the senior men’s team. This move comes as Rahul Dravid’s tenure is going to end after the T20 World Cup 2024. Among the names surfacing as potential replacements are CSK’s coach Stephen Fleming, DC’s Ricky Ponting, Australian coach Justin Langer, Gautam Gambhir and NCA head coach VVS Laxman.

Rumours spread that India may go for a foreign head coach after almost a decade. Notable successes under previous foreign coaches like John Wright and Gary Kristen make this prospect enticing.

Fans apply for India head coach post via BCCI’s Google forms; funny posts

Wright steered India to the finals of the 2003 ODI World Cup, while Kristen helped for India’s triumph in the 2011 ODI World Cup. The deadline for applications is May 27, setting the stage for pivotal decisions in Indian cricket.

Here is the list of names who might be the next head coach for India.

Stephen Fleming: The present coach of Chennai Super Kings is being considered by the BCCI. However, the responses from their respective sides have been lukewarm, given the demanding commitment needed, spanning about 10 months annually.

Ricky Ponting: Ricky Ponting, who boasts a successful coaching stint with Delhi Capitals since 2018, has prior work experience with Mumbai Indians, aiding them to an IPL title in 2015. With his extensive involvement in Indian cricket, Ponting emerges as a strong contender for the new role.

If Ponting or Fleming is appointed as India’s head coach, they must end their coaching contract with the IPL franchise.

VVS Laxman: A popular former Indian cricketer and head of the NCA, had emerged as a potential successor to Rahul Dravid. But reports indicate that VVS Laxman may not throw his hat into the ring. It’s speculated that the BCCI prefers maintaining the existing setup at the NCA.

Gautam Gambhir: Gautam Gambhir, renowned for his tactical acumen and man-management skills, could also be a contender. However, his emotional ties with KKR and potential conflicts with certain players may influence his decision.

Not Rahul Dravid? BCCI wants a new head coach for developing a world class Indian cricket team

Justin Langer: Australian coach Justin Langer, known for his disciplined approach, hasn’t ruled out the possibility either, citing the mental and physical demands of coaching in India.

BCCI secretary Jay Shah has dismissed the notion of separate coaches for different formats, signalling a preference for a single candidate capable of extensive travel over the next three and half years.

Meanwhile, Dravid, whose current contract expires after the T20 World Cup, retains the option to reapply. With applications open until May 27, a day after the IPL final, indications point toward the BCCI favoring a fresh face for the position.