NCA head and former India great VVS Laxman will travel with Team India for the Zimbabwe T20Is, starting July 6, while Gautam Gambhir, who is likely to replace Rahul Dravid as India’s new head coach, will begin tenure mid-July during the away Sri Lanka series. Per the latest reports, the BCCI will announce Gambhir’s appointment as India’s new head coach soon, with the two-time World Cup winner likely to bring his coaching staff alongside.

As the Men in Blue continue to grind in the ongoing 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas, the BCCI will make the squad announcement for the Zimbabwe series by the end of this week, mostly around 22 or 23.&nbsp;

The Indian Cricket Board is said to pick a different squad altogether, with all eyes on the youngsters who stood out in IPL 2024, including SunRisers opener Abhishek Sharma, Rajasthan Royals batter Riyan Parag, RCB seamer Yash Dayal, alongside a few other names. The board might also give maiden India caps to Harshit Rana and Nitish Kumar Reddy. &nbsp;

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The report also suggests that BCCI’s ‘targeted list of cricketers’ is having a camp under Laxman at the NCA.&nbsp;

"There is a possibility that Laxman along with some of the NCA coaches will travel with the new look squad to Zimbabwe. Laxman and the NCA team has always filled up whenever Rahul Dravid and the first team coaches have been taking periodic breaks during their stint," a BCCI source told PTI on condition of anonymity.

The BCCI will pick seven to eight players from the T20 WC squad, including deputy T20I captain Hardik Pandya and star batter Suryakumar Yadav. Although Hardik is said to captain the Indian Team in Zimbabwe, in case he asks for rest, the board might give SKY the chance to captain India in the shortest format.&nbsp;

<h2>Gambhir’s announcement on the cards</h2>

Rahul Dravid’s tenure as Team India coach ends with the conclusion of the T20 WC, with Gautam taking over the realm.

Per the latest reports, Gambhir and WV Raman – the former Women’s Team coach, were interviewed by the BCCI, with the board going for the former India cricketer.

Meanwhile, Gambhir’s tenure begins with the away Sri Lanka series, consisting of three T20Is and as many ODIs, and will last for three and half years till December 31, 2027.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

NCA head and former India great VVS Laxman will travel with Team India for the Zimbabwe T20Is, starting July 6, while Gautam Gambhir, who is likely to replace Rahul Dravid as India’s new head coach, will begin tenure mid-July during the away Sri Lanka series.

NCA head and former India great VVS Laxman will travel with Team India for the Zimbabwe T20Is, starting July 6, while Gautam Gambhir, who is likely to replace Rahul Dravid as India’s new head coach, will begin tenure mid-July during the away Sri Lanka series. Per the latest reports, the BCCI will announce Gambhir’s appointment as India’s new head coach soon, with the two-time World Cup winner likely to bring his coaching staff alongside. As the Men in Blue continue to grind in the ongoing 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas, the BCCI will make the squad announcement for the Zimbabwe series by the end of this week, mostly around 22 or 23. The Indian Cricket Board is said to pick a different squad altogether, with all eyes on the youngsters who stood out in IPL 2024, including SunRisers opener Abhishek Sharma, Rajasthan Royals batter Riyan Parag, RCB seamer Yash Dayal, alongside a few other names. The board might also give maiden India caps to Harshit Rana and Nitish Kumar Reddy. ALSO READ: Ex-Pakistan player Mohammed Hafeez calls Virat Kohli, KL Rahul 'selfish' yet again The report also suggests that BCCI’s ‘targeted list of cricketers’ is having a camp under Laxman at the NCA. "There is a possibility that Laxman along with some of the NCA coaches will travel with the new look squad to Zimbabwe. Laxman and the NCA team has always filled up whenever Rahul Dravid and the first team coaches have been taking periodic breaks during their stint," a BCCI source told PTI on condition of anonymity. The BCCI will pick seven to eight players from the T20 WC squad, including deputy T20I captain Hardik Pandya and star batter Suryakumar Yadav. Although Hardik is said to captain the Indian Team in Zimbabwe, in case he asks for rest, the board might give SKY the chance to captain India in the shortest format. Gambhir’s announcement on the cards Rahul Dravid’s tenure as Team India coach ends with the conclusion of the T20 WC, with Gautam taking over the realm. Per the latest reports, Gambhir and WV Raman – the former Women’s Team coach, were interviewed by the BCCI, with the board going for the former India cricketer. Meanwhile, Gambhir’s tenure begins with the away Sri Lanka series, consisting of three T20Is and as many ODIs, and will last for three and half years till December 31, 2027. (With inputs from agencies)

VVS Laxman to travel with Team India for Zimbabwe tour; Gambhir’s tenure as new coach to begin soon - Reports

The Indian Cricket Board might announce a new head coach later this week. Former India opener and Kolkata Knight Riders mentor Gautam Gambhir is leading the race to replace Rahul Dravid as Team India’s new head coach, according to&nbsp;reports.&nbsp;Dravid’s tenure as the team’s boss will end with the conclusion of the ongoing 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas, with the incoming coach taking charge immediately.

A Dainik Jagran report suggests that the BCCI plans to name Gautam as Dravid’s successor. Following the England Tests at home earlier, the board put out the invitations for this job, with several names emerging, including Gautam Gambhir, NCA chief VVS Laxman and the Australian duo of Justin Langer and Ricky Ponting.

All these names besides Gambhir rejected the offer, which extends for three and a half years till December 31, 2027. While Ponting and Langer called this job ‘exhausting’ yet ‘best in the world’, none appeared to apply for it. However, following the conclusion of the group stage games in IPL 2024, Gambhir’s name began making headlines.&nbsp;

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Upon approaching, Gautam said he would consider taking up this job, meaning he will have to review his role as KKR mentor, which he agreed to ahead of this season. Before this, Gautam was the head coach of the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and guided them to sealing playoff spots for two straight years. This season, under his tutelage, KKR won its third IPL trophy, beating SunRisers Hyderabad in the final.

<h2>India under Dravid in T20 WC</h2>

Dravid’s contract earlier was until the conclusion of last year’s 50-over World Cup at home. However, the board extended it till the 2024 T20 World Cup, where India has flourished thus far.

Drawn alongside the co-hosts USA, arch-rivals Pakistan, Canada and Ireland in Group A, India won all three matches, including beating Pakistan in New York, and their final league game against Canada got washed out.&nbsp;

India topped their group and will face Afghanistan on June 20, Bangladesh or Netherlands two days later on June 22, and Australia on June 24. Should India qualify for the semis, they will face the knockout game in Guyana. The final will take place on Saturday (June 29).&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Indian Cricket Board might announce a new head coach later this week. Former India opener and Kolkata Knight Riders mentor Gautam Gambhir is leading the race to replace Rahul Dravid as Team India’s new head coach, according to reports.

The Indian Cricket Board might announce a new head coach later this week. Former India opener and Kolkata Knight Riders mentor Gautam Gambhir is leading the race to replace Rahul Dravid as Team India’s new head coach, according to reports. Dravid’s tenure as the team’s boss will end with the conclusion of the ongoing 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas, with the incoming coach taking charge immediately. A Dainik Jagran report suggests that the BCCI plans to name Gautam as Dravid’s successor. Following the England Tests at home earlier, the board put out the invitations for this job, with several names emerging, including Gautam Gambhir, NCA chief VVS Laxman and the Australian duo of Justin Langer and Ricky Ponting. All these names besides Gambhir rejected the offer, which extends for three and a half years till December 31, 2027. While Ponting and Langer called this job ‘exhausting’ yet ‘best in the world’, none appeared to apply for it. However, following the conclusion of the group stage games in IPL 2024, Gambhir’s name began making headlines. ALSO READ: T20 veteran David Wiese announces international retirement: 'Just seemed like the right time' Upon approaching, Gautam said he would consider taking up this job, meaning he will have to review his role as KKR mentor, which he agreed to ahead of this season. Before this, Gautam was the head coach of the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and guided them to sealing playoff spots for two straight years. This season, under his tutelage, KKR won its third IPL trophy, beating SunRisers Hyderabad in the final. India under Dravid in T20 WC Dravid’s contract earlier was until the conclusion of last year’s 50-over World Cup at home. However, the board extended it till the 2024 T20 World Cup, where India has flourished thus far. Drawn alongside the co-hosts USA, arch-rivals Pakistan, Canada and Ireland in Group A, India won all three matches, including beating Pakistan in New York, and their final league game against Canada got washed out. India topped their group and will face Afghanistan on June 20, Bangladesh or Netherlands two days later on June 22, and Australia on June 24. Should India qualify for the semis, they will face the knockout game in Guyana. The final will take place on Saturday (June 29). (With inputs from agencies)

Team India's new head coach announcement in one week time - Reports

Former India captain and BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has backed Gautam Gambhir to become Team India’s new head coach, replacing Rahul Dravid, whose tenure is ending following the conclusion of the T20 World Cup in the Americas. A few days after posting (on social media) about how the head coach's selection shapes up a team’s future, Ganguly urges an Indian to fill that soon-to-be-vacant position, and who better than the rumoured candidate Gambhir?

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The coach's significance in one's life, their guidance, and relentless training shape the future of any person, both on and off the field. So choose the coach and institution wisely…
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Backing any former Indian ahead of the touted overseas names like Stephen Fleming, Mahela Jayawardene and the Australian duo of Justin Langer and Ricky Ponting, Ganguly feels BCCI need not look beyond the Indians (who had applied for this job), adding there is enormous coaching talent in this country, with everyone rightfully deserving to be part of the system.

"I am in favour of an Indian coach because we have enormous talent in our country, enormously high-skilled players who have done wonders for Indian cricket, and very rightfully, they should be a part of the system," Ganguly said while addressing this topic during his speech at the International Procurement and Supply Chain Conference's opening in Mumbai.

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Ganguly also talked about Gambhir, saying if he had applied for this post, he made a strong case for himself.

"...has he applied? I really don't know because first he has to apply and then only, he will get the job...I think (May) 27th was the last date of application," Ganguly said of Gambhir.&nbsp;

"Obviously, BCCI has the right to extend it (the deadline) as well. If he applies and if he wants it, and I say if he applies and if he wants it, he will be a very good candidate," the former India captain continued.

<h2>Gambhir on a roll following KKR’s IPL win</h2>

Kolkata Knight Riders lifted the IPL 2024 trophy, beating SunRisers Hyderabad in the most one-sided final. Though all the participating players deserve the utmost credit for this winning campaign, Gautam Gambhir, who Shah Rukh Khan roped in as the mentor for this season, earned the right to be called the man to make this happen.&nbsp;

Gambhir’s brief coaching credentials speak for him, having led his former franchise, Lucknow Super Giant (LSG), to playoffs in two consecutive seasons, and Ganguly feels with the latest title run campaign with KKR, he pressed his case for becoming Team India’s next head coach.

"If Gambhir applies — you can see it on TV — he worked for KKR this year. I was with Delhi (Capitals), you can see the hunger, the passion and the want to win and I will be happy if he applies and if the board decides to give him the job, I think he is a good candidate," Ganguly said.

Meanwhile, Team India is in the Caribbean and the USA for the 20-team tournament starting June 2. India will play one warm-up game against Bangladesh and open their campaign against Ireland on June 5.

India is placed in Group A alongside co-hosts USA, arch-rivals Pakistan, Canada and Ireland.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former India captain and BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has backed Gautam Gambhir to become Team India’s new head coach, replacing Rahul Dravid, whose tenure is ending following the conclusion of the T20 World Cup in the Americas.

Former India captain and BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has backed Gautam Gambhir to become Team India’s new head coach, replacing Rahul Dravid, whose tenure is ending following the conclusion of the T20 World Cup in the Americas. A few days after posting (on social media) about how the head coach's selection shapes up a team’s future, Ganguly urges an Indian to fill that soon-to-be-vacant position, and who better than the rumoured candidate Gambhir? The coach's significance in one's life, their guidance, and relentless training shape the future of any person, both on and off the field. So choose the coach and institution wisely… — Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) May 30, 2024 × Backing any former Indian ahead of the touted overseas names like Stephen Fleming, Mahela Jayawardene and the Australian duo of Justin Langer and Ricky Ponting, Ganguly feels BCCI need not look beyond the Indians (who had applied for this job), adding there is enormous coaching talent in this country, with everyone rightfully deserving to be part of the system. "I am in favour of an Indian coach because we have enormous talent in our country, enormously high-skilled players who have done wonders for Indian cricket, and very rightfully, they should be a part of the system," Ganguly said while addressing this topic during his speech at the International Procurement and Supply Chain Conference's opening in Mumbai. ALSO READ: Chris Woakes reveals reason behind continued international absence, posts emotional text after father's death Ganguly also talked about Gambhir, saying if he had applied for this post, he made a strong case for himself. "...has he applied? I really don't know because first he has to apply and then only, he will get the job...I think (May) 27th was the last date of application," Ganguly said of Gambhir. "Obviously, BCCI has the right to extend it (the deadline) as well. If he applies and if he wants it, and I say if he applies and if he wants it, he will be a very good candidate," the former India captain continued. Gambhir on a roll following KKR’s IPL win Kolkata Knight Riders lifted the IPL 2024 trophy, beating SunRisers Hyderabad in the most one-sided final. Though all the participating players deserve the utmost credit for this winning campaign, Gautam Gambhir, who Shah Rukh Khan roped in as the mentor for this season, earned the right to be called the man to make this happen. Gambhir’s brief coaching credentials speak for him, having led his former franchise, Lucknow Super Giant (LSG), to playoffs in two consecutive seasons, and Ganguly feels with the latest title run campaign with KKR, he pressed his case for becoming Team India’s next head coach. "If Gambhir applies — you can see it on TV — he worked for KKR this year. I was with Delhi (Capitals), you can see the hunger, the passion and the want to win and I will be happy if he applies and if the board decides to give him the job, I think he is a good candidate," Ganguly said. Meanwhile, Team India is in the Caribbean and the USA for the 20-team tournament starting June 2. India will play one warm-up game against Bangladesh and open their campaign against Ireland on June 5. India is placed in Group A alongside co-hosts USA, arch-rivals Pakistan, Canada and Ireland. (With inputs from agencies)

Gautam Gambhir receives backing from former captain as India head coach talks intensify

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor Gautam Gambhir’s IPL’s future hangs in limbo, with his prospects of becoming Team India’s new head coach strengthening. As per the latest reports, the BCCI and Gambhir are yet to have a detailed discussion over this possibility; however, if all goes according to the plan, Gambhir will have to let go of his IPL commitments with the KKR to take up that role, something that could bother the franchise co-owner, Shah Rukh Khan.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) mentor Gautam Gambhir’s IPL’s future hangs in limbo, with his prospects of becoming Team India’s new head coach strengthening. As per the latest reports, the BCCI and Gambhir are yet to have a detailed discussion over this possibility; however, if all goes according to the plan, Gambhir will have to let go of his IPL commitments with the KKR to take up that role, something that could bother the franchise co-owner, Shah Rukh Khan. Gautam is a two-time IPL winner with KKR (2012 and 2014), captaining the side on both occasions. Fast forward 10 years, he returned to his favourite team as a mentor from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), where he remained coach for the first two years. Reports earlier had suggested that it was because of Shah Rukh Khan that Gambhir decided to switch bases ahead of this season. ALSO READ: T20 World Cup: Hardik Pandya to fly from London as Team India's first batch to depart for New York on May 25 Meanwhile, going by his record as part of the backroom staff, Gambhir guided LSG to reach playoffs on both occasions, and this season has helped KKR qualify for the first position on the points table for the first time and reach the finals. KKR will take on SRH in the mega IPL final on Sunday (May 26) in Chennai. However, per a report in the Times of India (TOI), whether Gambhir will accept BCCI’s offer of becoming the new head coach will boil down to “private conversation with Shah Rukh Khan (co-owner), if it comes to that.” Clear road ahead for Gambhir With Dravid not agreeing to continuing as Team India’s head coach following the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas, the BCCI took to social media to invite applicants for the top job in Indian cricket. Various media reports even suggested that the Indian board approached a few Australian legends like Ricky Ponting and Justin Langer for the role. Both refused to apply due to the tenure duration (three and a half years). However, the BCCI secretary Jay Shah cleared the air around the same, admitting neither he nor the board had approached these or any Australian for India’s head coach role. “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. 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,” Shah said in a statement. The deadline to apply is May 27th – one day after the IPL 2024 Final. (With inputs from agencies)

‘A private chat with Shah Rukh Khan…’ – Gambhir’s IPL future lingers as India head coach prospects brighten

There is a lot of buzz around who will replace Rahul Dravid as Team India’s next head coach. While several top names, including Ricky Ponting, Justin Langer and Stephen Fleming, have popped up thus far, none is finalised yet.

There is a lot of buzz around who will replace Rahul Dravid as Team India’s next head coach. While several top names, including Ricky Ponting, Justin Langer and Stephen Fleming, have popped up thus far, none is finalised yet. Adding to this elite list is another modern-day great, AB de Villiers, who revealed that he hasn’t applied for the job yet, but things can change quickly. With Dravid’s contract ending with the conclusion of the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Americas, the BCCI had advertised for the next head coach role, who will take over the job from July 1 with immediate effect. The duration is three and a half years, ending on December 31, 2027. Amid reports of several top names declining the chance of coaching Team India, the BCCI secretary Jay Shah said on Friday (May 24) that neither he nor the board approached any Australian for the job. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: MS Dhoni’s stardom blows away Langer, says ‘the hero worship in India is unbelievable’ However, de Villiers admitted he would love to coach a national team but revealed he has yet to apply for this job. "I absolutely have no idea. I do think I'll enjoy coaching. I think there are certain elements that I won't enjoy as much, which I will have to learn. With time, anything is possible, and I can think on my feet and learn as I move on," De Villiers said in a chat with News18. "But I think there are elements of a coaching job that I'll enjoy a lot. Things that I've learned over the years, the maturity that I've got now at the age of 40, looking back, a lot of things look a lot clearer when I look back at my career. So those kinds of learnings could be valuable for some younger players, even some senior players," the former Proteas captain continued. ‘Down the line...’ Knowing how engergy-consuming a national side coach's role would be, De Villiers looks ready for the challenge, but down the line. "And I would love to work with some players and some teams in that regard. As a full-time head coach, that's not something that comes to mind as of yet. It's not something that really appeals to me now. But as I said, never say never. Down the line, things might change,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Never say never’ – AB de Villiers joins list of elite candidates for India’s head coach job

The Indian Cricket Board seems to be running out of options for Team India’s head coach role, with top overseas contenders like Ricky Ponting, Stephen Fleming and Justin Langer declining the chance to replace Rahul Dravid as head coach.

The Indian Cricket Board seems to be running out of options for Team India’s head coach role, with top overseas contenders like Ricky Ponting, Stephen Fleming and Justin Langer declining the chance to replace Rahul Dravid as head coach. While Ponting and Langer have issued statements on why they refused this offer in the first place, the sources close to the information revealed Fleming turned down the chance due to the duration of this contract, which is three and a half years. Following the conclusion of the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the USA starting June 2, Dravid’s tenure will end, with the new head coach taking over the job from July 1 with immediate effect. Earlier, the BCCI took to social media to invite applicants for Team India’s head coach role, with several reports suggesting that BCCI approached these stalwarts to apply for the job, the deadline of which is May 27 – one day after the IPL 2024 final. Speaking on the ICC Review, former Australia captain Ponting said he would have loved to coach a national team, but given his lifestyle, he fears not being able to donate nine to ten months in a year for that. ALSO READ: Predictable, non risk-takers and unthreatening – David Llyod’s assessment of India’s T20 World Cup squad "I'd love to be a senior coach of a national team, but with the other things that I have in my life and wanting to have a bit of time at home…everyone knows if you take a job working with the Indian team you can't be involved in an IPL team, so it would take that out of it as well. "Also, a national head coach is a ten- or 11-month-of-the-year job, and as much as I'd like to do it, it just doesn't fit into my lifestyle right now and the things that I really enjoy doing,” Ponting said on ICC Review. Meanwhile, Langer revealed his reason behind letting go of Team India’s head coach role job, saying after having a detailed chat with Lucknow Super Giant (LSG) captain and India's batting mainstay KL Rahul, he decided to turn it down. "You never say never. And the pressure of doing it in India… I was talking to KL Rahul [the captain at Lucknow Super Giants, where Langer is the head coach], and he said, 'You know, if you think there's pressure and politics in an IPL team, multiply that by a thousand, [that's] coaching India. That was a good bit of advice, I guess. "It would be an awesome job, but not for me at the moment,” Langer said. India’s coaching role is not Fleming’s cup of tea Chennai Super Kings’ CEO Viswanathan revealed on CSK’s YouTube channel that Fleming has likely turned down the offer mainly because of its tenure. "I know that it's not going to be his cup of tea because he doesn't like to be involved [in coaching] for nine-ten months in a year. That's my feeling. I have not discussed anything more with him,” Viswanathan said.

BCCI runs out of options as Ponting, Langer and Fleming decline Team India’s head coach role

Veteran India spinner Harbhajan Singh is reportedly keen on applying for Team India’s head coach position. Harbhajan is the second high-profile Indian player after Gautam Gambhir, willing to replace Rahul Dravid for the top job.

Veteran India spinner Harbhajan Singh is reportedly keen on applying for Team India’s head coach position. Harbhajan is the second high-profile Indian player after Gautam Gambhir, willing to replace Rahul Dravid for the top job. Rahul’s tenure ends with the conclusion of the upcoming T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the USA. Besides, Harbhajan also picked Sanju Samson over Rishabh Pant in the starting XI for the marquee event. On the day when media reports of BCCI seeking MS Dhoni’s assistance in convincing Stephen Fleming to apply for the soon-to-be-vacant post started doing rounds on the internet, Harbhajan’s interest in replacing Dravid has made this scenario exciting. As reported by the Times of India (TOI), Harbhajan revealed he hasn’t applied yet, but if an opportunity comes by, he will grab it with both hands. Bhajji continued by saying that what cricket offered him and helped him become who he is today, he’d like to give back to the game. ALSO READ: BCCI seeks MS Dhoni’s help in convincing Stephen Fleming for India’s head coach role – Reports "I do not know if I would apply. Coaching India is about man management, not about teaching players how to drive and pull. They know it very well. You can give some guidance to them. Cricket has given me so much, and if I get a chance to give it back, I would be more than happy,” Harbhajan said as quoted by TOI. Meanwhile, Dravid had denied reapplying for the head coach position despite BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirming that the doors for him are always open. The newly-appointed head coach will take over the job from July 1 and his tenure will run for three and a half years. Sanju over Pant for Harbhajan Following a stunning season with the bat in hand and behind the wickets, Sanju Samson earned a call-up to the final 15 for the 20-team tournament starting June 2. Although Rishabh Pant was picked as the first-choice keeper, Harbhajan feels with both among the runs in IPL 2024, Sanju should be preferred to start ahead of Pant. "Rishabh Pant played well in the IPL. He has come out of his injuries. He looked fit, batted well and did some nice wicketkeeping. But Sanju played really well. I would like to see him get a chance. He has been performing consistently." "He has been scoring 60s and 70s and is not the old Sanju anymore who would score just 30s and 40s. But there has been no hurry in bringing Pant back, he worked really hard. I hope he does something special for India," Harbhajan said. India is placed in Group A alongside arch-rivals Pakistan, co-hosts USA, Canada and Ireland. The Men in Blue will open their campaign against Ireland on June 5, while their marquee clash against Pakistan will take place in New York on June 9.

Harbhajan Singh keen on becoming India’s head coach; picks Samson over Pant for T20 World Cup

The Indian Cricket Board plans to approach former captain MS Dhoni in convincing his IPL franchise (Chennai Super Kings) head coach Stephen Fleming to apply for soon-to-be-vacant Team India’s head coach role.

The Indian Cricket Board plans to approach former captain MS Dhoni in convincing his IPL franchise (Chennai Super Kings) head coach Stephen Fleming to apply for soon-to-be-vacant Team India’s head coach role. Following Rahul Dravid’s tenure completion after the end of the upcoming T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the USA, a new head coach, yet to be decided, will take charge for three and a half years from July 1. The BCCI took to social media to invite the applicants for the head coach job, with former Kiwi legend Fleming considered among the choices. Per the latest report, Fleming hasn’t rejected the offer yet, amid concerns over the lengthy duration of this job. Speaking with Hindustan Times, the board officials admitted that even Dravid was apprehensive about the tenure before accepting the offer but eventually did. Hoping for the lightning to strike twice, the unnamed official said they would seek Dhoni’s assistance in convincing Fleming to apply for the job, the deadline being May 27 – one day after the IPL 2024 final. ALSO READ: 'Optimistic' Rinku Singh breaks silence on 2024 T20 World Cup snub, says 'My dream is...' “Fleming hasn’t said no. He has expressed his concerns about the tenure of the contract, which is nothing unusual. Even Rahul Dravid wasn’t keen in the beginning. He was persuaded. It shouldn’t be a surprise if the same thing happens with Fleming. And who better than MS Dhoni to do the job?" Hindustan Times quoted the official as saying. Now that CSK is out of the playoff race, Dhoni and Fleming are relieved of their duties, giving more time to Fleming to think about joining hands with the Indian Team as their head coach. More the merrier Several media reports have suggested that the BCCI even approached former India opener Gautam Gambhir for the head coach role. The two-time World Cup winner, Gambhir, was appointed the KKR mentor in IPL 2024, guiding the team to their first-ever first-place finish on the points table. Though Kolkata faces Hyderabad for a place in the season’s final on Sunday, Gambhir is said to be discussing details with the BCCI following the end of IPL 2024. Another name that did rounds on the internet was former Australia batter and coach Justin Langer. Like Gautam, Langer is also part of the backroom staff in IPL 2024 – working as the head coach of Lucknow Super Giants. Addressing the magnitude of this job, Langer, during an IPL presser, said, “Well, I am curious. I’ve never ever thought about it. I have deep respect for any international coach because I understand the pressure, but coaching the Indian team would be an extraordinary role. From what I’ve seen with the amount of talent I’ve seen in this country, it would be fascinating.”

BCCI seeks MS Dhoni’s help in convincing Stephen Fleming for India’s head coach role – Reports

A day after the Indian Cricket Board approached former two-time World Cup winner Gautam Gambhir for the soon-to-be-vacant Team India’s head coach position, ex-Australia coach Justin Langer shared his thoughts on what he called the ‘biggest job in cricket’.

A day after the Indian Cricket Board approached former two-time World Cup winner Gautam Gambhir for the soon-to-be-vacant Team India’s head coach position, ex-Australia coach Justin Langer shared his thoughts on what he called the ‘biggest job in cricket’. Following Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) 18-run win over Mumbai Indians (MI) in IPL 2024 the other night, Langer – the franchise’s head coach, opened up on being a head coach of a national team. Following the conclusion of the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup in the Americas, current Coach Rahul Dravid’s tenure will expire, with the new coach taking over the job from July 1, 2024, for three and a half years. Since Dravid has rejected the chance of reapplying for the same position, citing personal reasons, the BCCI took to social media to invite applicants for India’s head coach role, with its deadline being May 27 – one day after the IPL 2024 final. ALSO READ: IPL 2024: Misery mounts for MI captain Pandya as BCCI slaps fine, one-match ban for slow over-rate vs LSG Explaining the challenges that come with this particular job, Langer said because of the volume of cricket and expectations of winning with this Indian Team, it would be a massive challenge for anyone applying for it. He added that the pleasure of winning an ICC trophy with this bunch of cricketers would be fun. "It would almost be the biggest job in cricket - being the head coach of the Indian cricket team," Langer said. "One, because of the huge volume of cricket and the huge expectation. It would be a great challenge. It would be great fun, and it would be a wonderful opportunity to win ICC titles,” he added. ‘It’s encompassing, exhausting’ Having coached the Aussie team earlier, guiding them to their maiden ICC T20 WC title in 2021, Langer said he knows what one goes through, adding Dravid and Ravi Shastri (former India coach) could tell everyone the same thing. "But with all these things, the timing has got to be right. I did four or so years with the Australian cricket team. It is all encompassing. It is exhausting. Rahul Dravid will probably tell you the same thing, and Ravi Shastri will probably tell you the same thing. The pressure on winning for the Indian team is massive," Langer continued. Meanwhile, Langer coached LSG this season, guiding them to a sixth-place finish with seven wins and as many losses in 14 contested matches. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Biggest job in cricket but exhausting’ – Justin Langer on Team India’s head coach role

The Indian Cricket Board has approached two-time World Cup winner and former opener Gautam Gambhir to become Team India’s head coach following Rahul Dravid’s tenure, which ends with the conclusion of the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the USA.

The Indian Cricket Board has approached two-time World Cup winner and former opener Gautam Gambhir to become Team India’s head coach following Rahul Dravid’s tenure, which ends with the conclusion of the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the USA. The BCCI is keen on having Gambhir on board as the next head coach, whose tenure would run for three and a half years, starting July 1, 2024. Per the latest reports, the board has zeroed in on Gambhir to take over the most important role in Indian Cricket. With Dravid’s tenure set to end in June, the BCCI released a statement last week seeking applicants to fill Dravid’s shoes as Team India’s head coach. The deadline for name submission is May 27, a day after the IPL 2024 final. ALSO READ: No Pakistan, England as BCCI's Jay Shah picks final four for T20 WC; weighs on IPL's Impact Player rule With ‘The Wall’ denying reapplying for the job despite BCCI secretary Jay Shah saying the doors are always open for him to take the role, several other options were considered, including former India legend and Dravid’s long-time teammate VVS Laxman. The National Cricket Academy head has also reportedly denied applying for the job. While Gambhir has yet to coach a national side, his resume in the IPL has been no less than impressive. A two-time IPL winner with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2012 and 2014, Gambhir is currently the franchise's mentor, guiding them to their first-ever first-place finish in the group stages this season. Before rejoining KKR as the mentor ahead of this season, Gambhir coached Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in their first two seasons, guiding them to playoffs both times. It is the third consecutive time that Gambhir-led side has entered the final four of an IPL season. Although he is busy with proceedings at KKR with the playoffs approaching, the BCCI will resume talks after the season ends on May 26 (Sunday). Gambhir – a hero of the game! Widely known for his clutch innings in two World Cup-winning finals (75 against Pakistan in the 2007 T20 WC final and 97 against Sri Lanka in the 2011 WC final), Gambhir was known for playing his heart on his sleeves. Even as a mentor or a coach for an IPL franchise, Gambhir has shown why he is heads and shoulders ahead of his contemporaries, with a sole aim in mind – to win. Meanwhile, some overseas names, including Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Stephen Fleming, are being considered as options for the head coach position. (With inputs from agencies)

BCCI approaches Gautam Gambhir for India’s head coach position - Reports

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has expressed astonishment that Rahul Dravid took up the job of head coach of the Indian squad, given his family. Ponting also showed interest in taking coaching of Australian team but can’t do at present because it demands at least 300 days away from family.

Dravid's coaching career got off to a winning start on Wednesday, as Team India defeated New Zealand by five wickets in the opening T20I of the three-match series.

"Actually, I’m surprised that Dravid has taken it up as well. There was a lot of chat about how happy he was in the Under-19 role he had. I’m not sure about his family life but I'm sure he has got young kids. So I’m surprised that he took it but as I said, the people I spoke to were sure they got the right person so they were probably able to get Dravid to do it," Ponting stated on the Grade Cricketers Podcast.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-difficult-to-get-away-he-has-great-control-over-line-and-length-says-martin-guptill-430197">Ravichandran Ashwin difficult to get away, he has great control over line and length, says Martin Guptill</a>

Ponting also said that he was contacted about being Team India's head coach, but he had to decline. "I had a couple of conversations with some people during the IPL about it (the head coach position). The people I spoke to were pretty hell-bent to find a way to make it work. The first thing I said was that I can’t give that much time, that means I can’t coach in the IPL," he added.

When asked if he'll ever take up the job of Australia’s head coach, Rickey Ponting said that coaching a national team is a tedious task and to leave his family behind is not what he can do at moment.

He said, "Time is the only thing that stops it, I’d love to coach the Australian team, but what I have done with my playing career was being away from family as much. I have a young family now, a seven-year-old boy, and to give up 300 days a year is not what I would do."

He further said that even though he is the coach of Delhi Capitals he gets enough time for himself and the family. "That's where the IPL works so well for me. To be able to coach 8-10 weeks in winter months, and to be able to come back and do the Channel 7 stuff in the summer, I have got enough work to keep me happy and to keep me around the game but also be able to spend time with the family."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aaron-finch-wants-to-lead-australias-t20-title-defence-on-home-soil-430164">Aaron Finch wants to lead Australia's T20 title defence on home soil</a>

Delhi Capitals had qualified for the IPL 2021 playoffs.

On coaching’s job he said, "I actually think, from my view, it's almost an older man's job and not for someone who has got a young family."

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has expressed astonishment that Rahul Dravid took up the job of head coach of the Indian squad, given his family. Ponting also showed interest in taking coaching of Australian team but can’t do at present because it demands at least 300 days away from family.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has expressed astonishment that Rahul Dravid took up the job of head coach of the Indian squad, given his family. Ponting also showed interest in taking coaching of Australian team but can’t do at present because it demands at least 300 days away from family. Dravid's coaching career got off to a winning start on Wednesday, as Team India defeated New Zealand by five wickets in the opening T20I of the three-match series. "Actually, I’m surprised that Dravid has taken it up as well. There was a lot of chat about how happy he was in the Under-19 role he had. I’m not sure about his family life but I'm sure he has got young kids. So I’m surprised that he took it but as I said, the people I spoke to were sure they got the right person so they were probably able to get Dravid to do it," Ponting stated on the Grade Cricketers Podcast. ALSO READ: Ravichandran Ashwin difficult to get away, he has great control over line and length, says Martin Guptill Ponting also said that he was contacted about being Team India's head coach, but he had to decline. "I had a couple of conversations with some people during the IPL about it (the head coach position). The people I spoke to were pretty hell-bent to find a way to make it work. The first thing I said was that I can’t give that much time, that means I can’t coach in the IPL," he added. When asked if he'll ever take up the job of Australia’s head coach, Rickey Ponting said that coaching a national team is a tedious task and to leave his family behind is not what he can do at moment. He said, "Time is the only thing that stops it, I’d love to coach the Australian team, but what I have done with my playing career was being away from family as much. I have a young family now, a seven-year-old boy, and to give up 300 days a year is not what I would do." He further said that even though he is the coach of Delhi Capitals he gets enough time for himself and the family. "That's where the IPL works so well for me. To be able to coach 8-10 weeks in winter months, and to be able to come back and do the Channel 7 stuff in the summer, I have got enough work to keep me happy and to keep me around the game but also be able to spend time with the family." ALSO READ: Aaron Finch wants to lead Australia's T20 title defence on home soil Delhi Capitals had qualified for the IPL 2021 playoffs. On coaching’s job he said, "I actually think, from my view, it's almost an older man's job and not for someone who has got a young family."

Ricky Ponting is 'surprised' on Rahul Dravid taking up job of India's head coach

With Ravi Shastri's tenure as head coach of the Indian cricket team set to end after the Twenty20 World Cup, fans in the cricket-crazy nation are waiting for a formal announcement on who will be the next coach. However, if reports are to be believed, former Test cricket stalwart Rahul Dravid is set to succeed Shastri.&nbsp;

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to reveal the name with Dravid reportedly being the favourite. However, he is not the only one BCCI had approached as previously, media reports revealed that the Indian cricket board considered Anil Kumble and VVS Laxman names as well.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-reacts-as-rahul-dravid-reportedly-set-to-succeed-ravi-shastri-as-indias-head-coach-421378">Virat Kohli reacts as Rahul Dravid reportedly set to succeed Ravi Shastri as India's head coac</a>h

But rumours that BCCI even approached Australian legend Ricky Ponting has grabbed everyone's attention as a report published by Times of India confirmed that Ponting name was also considered but the two-time World Cup-winning captain refused the offer, reason unknown so far.&nbsp;

Ponting's coaching career can be defined by his remarkable stint with the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise, Delhi Capitals (DC). His guidance as the coach is credited for DC's growth in the cash-rich cricket league in the past few years.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Dravid is credited for India's steady supply of young talent as head of the National Cricket Academy. He has been in charge of the national 'A' and U-19 set-up for the past six years. He has played 164 Tests and 344 one-dayers between 1996 and 2012 for India.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-india-vs-pakistan-to-manchester-united-vs-liverpool-could-october-24-get-any-better-420711">From India vs Pakistan to Manchester United vs Liverpool: Could October 24 get any better?</a>

Dravid currently heads the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru and was in Dubai during the just-concluded IPL to meet his former teammate and BCCI President Sourav Ganguly and Board secretary Jay Shah for an elaborate discussion.&nbsp;

As far as the T20 World Cup is considered, India will kick off their T20 World Cup campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on October 24 in Dubai. The tournament was scheduled to be held in India but the COVID-19 situation in the country forced organisers to shift it to the United Arab Emirates and Oman.&nbsp;

Ahead of the tournament, India tweaked its squad as Shardul Thakur has been added to the 15-member squad as he replaced Axar Patel, who will now be on the list of standby players.&nbsp;

With Ravi Shastri's tenure as head coach of the Indian cricket team set to end after the Twenty20 World Cup, fans in the cricket-crazy nation are waiting for a formal announcement on who will be the next coach.

With Ravi Shastri's tenure as head coach of the Indian cricket team set to end after the Twenty20 World Cup, fans in the cricket-crazy nation are waiting for a formal announcement on who will be the next coach. However, if reports are to be believed, former Test cricket stalwart Rahul Dravid is set to succeed Shastri. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to reveal the name with Dravid reportedly being the favourite. However, he is not the only one BCCI had approached as previously, media reports revealed that the Indian cricket board considered Anil Kumble and VVS Laxman names as well. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli reacts as Rahul Dravid reportedly set to succeed Ravi Shastri as India's head coach But rumours that BCCI even approached Australian legend Ricky Ponting has grabbed everyone's attention as a report published by Times of India confirmed that Ponting name was also considered but the two-time World Cup-winning captain refused the offer, reason unknown so far. Ponting's coaching career can be defined by his remarkable stint with the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise, Delhi Capitals (DC). His guidance as the coach is credited for DC's growth in the cash-rich cricket league in the past few years. On the other hand, Dravid is credited for India's steady supply of young talent as head of the National Cricket Academy. He has been in charge of the national 'A' and U-19 set-up for the past six years. He has played 164 Tests and 344 one-dayers between 1996 and 2012 for India. ALSO READ | From India vs Pakistan to Manchester United vs Liverpool: Could October 24 get any better? Dravid currently heads the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru and was in Dubai during the just-concluded IPL to meet his former teammate and BCCI President Sourav Ganguly and Board secretary Jay Shah for an elaborate discussion. As far as the T20 World Cup is considered, India will kick off their T20 World Cup campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on October 24 in Dubai. The tournament was scheduled to be held in India but the COVID-19 situation in the country forced organisers to shift it to the United Arab Emirates and Oman. Ahead of the tournament, India tweaked its squad as Shardul Thakur has been added to the 15-member squad as he replaced Axar Patel, who will now be on the list of standby players.

Did Australia legend Ricky Ponting refuse BCCI's offer to coach Team India?