The much-anticipated announcement of Gautam Gambhir as the new head coach for Team India has reportedly gotten stuck over payment issues. While the current incumbent, Rahul Dravid’s tenure will come to an end following T20 World Cup 2024, it has left the Indian cricket team without a permanent head coach. Presently, the head of NCA, VVS Laxman, assumed this role temporarily since negotiations are yet to take place.
Sources say the Board of Control for Cricket in India has already interviewed two probable candidates, one of whom is Gambhir, and WV Raman. But no official confirmation has come as the negotiations between Gambhir and the board are going on over salary terms, an Indian Express report adds.
Speaking to reporters, this has been confirmed by secretary BCCI Jay Shah, saying that the new coach will take over from the upcoming Sri Lanka series. This happens after a second-string Indian contingent is engaged against Zimbabwe in the current T20I series. Their next series is just around the corner in Sri Lanka.
The coaching staff, which included batting coach Vikram Rathour, bowling coach Paras Mhambrey and fielding coach T Dilip, too have ended their tenures under head coach Dravid. Following the appointment of Gambhir, the board is likely to give him the freedom to choose his support staff which could also do away with appointing an official batting coach as the latter was a renowned opening batsman during his playing days.
Both coach and selector appointments will be finalized very soon. The CAC has shortlisted two candidates, and their selection will be the guiding factor for us. VVS Laxman will take charge in Zimbabwe, and the new coach will join before the Sri Lanka series,” Shah said.
India’s upcoming cricket assignments include a tour of Sri Lanka, a series of three T20Is and three ODIs commencing from July 27.
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