New Delhi: India is soon to appoint a new chief coach, with former opener Gautam Gambhir emerging as the leading candidate. Official announcement is expected during the T20 World Cup 2024. Gambhir, along with former women’s team coach WV Raman, participated in the first round of interviews for the role. The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) posed some challenging questions to both candidates. Gambhir attended the interview virtually, while Raman was present in person.
Gambhir, who was recently appointed as a mentor for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in IPL 2024, where the team won the trophy, is considered an ideal candidate to replace Rahul Dravid.
Three Key Questions Asked:
According to a report by RevSportz, the CAC asked Gambhir and Raman three critical questions:
1. What are your views on the team’s coaching staff?
2. With some aging players in both the batting and bowling departments, how would you manage the transition period?
3. What are your thoughts on split captaincy, workload management, fitness standards, and the team’s failure to win ICC trophies?
Raman Wishes Gambhir Well
WV Raman recently expressed his best wishes to Gambhir for the role, stating that if the 2011 World Cup winner takes on the position, he would extend his support. Raman acknowledged Gambhir as one of the best IPL captains, known for his strong strategic skills and commitment to cricket.
Gambhir’s Conditions
Reports suggest Gambhir has set some conditions for the role, including the demand for separate teams for white-ball and red-ball cricket. He is also believed to have requested changes in the support staff, which could see new appointments for the positions of bowling, batting, and fielding coaches. The BCCI is expected to announce the new chief coach by the end of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024.
