The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently engaged in extensive discussions with Rahul Dravid regarding his role as Team India coach. The cricketing body appears inclined to usher in a new figure at the helm, aligning with the vision for the 2024 T20 World Cup. BCCI is reportedly eyeing VVS Laxman, the current National Cricket Academy (NCA) Director, as the frontrunner for the position of India’s new coach.
Rahul Dravid’s two-year stint as the coach concluded with India’s heart-wrenching loss to Australia in the 2023 ODI World Cup final on November 19. The cricketing community awaits official confirmation regarding Dravid’s continuation or potential departure.
According to a BCCI official, discussions between Rahul Dravid and the board took place to assess the current scenario. The prevailing sentiment suggests that, with the T20 World Cup approximately 7-8 months away, the timing is opportune for a new coach to step in, spearhead the team-building process, and establish a robust system. The official emphasized that Dravid is well aware of this aspect.
However, the official underscored that no conclusive decision has been reached thus far.
“We are also deliberating on the need for continuity, contemplating whether the current coach-captain combination should persist for the T20 World Cup. We aim to finalize a decision shortly to provide clarity on the way forward,” he elaborated.
Reports indicate that BCCI expresses contentment with Dravid’s tenure, highlighting India’s journey to the finals of the World Test Championship and World Cup, along with clinching the Asia Cup 2023.
VVS Laxman emerges as the favored candidate to succeed Rahul Dravid as India’s head coach.
“The possibilities for the head coach role are open. Laxman is well-acquainted with the team, the players, and the methodologies. His familiarity and prior experience working with the national team make him a strong contender,” the official remarked.
Presently, Laxman assumes the role of acting coach for Team India during the ongoing T20I series against Australia. The final decision regarding the coaching position awaits resolution as the cricketing fraternity anticipates a new era under the potential stewardship of VVS Laxman.
