Ravi Shastri might quit as Team India coach after the T20 World Cup, according to a report by The Indian Express.
In addition to Shastri's exit, the entire support staff of the men's Indian cricket team (bowling coach Bharat Arun, fielding coach R Sridhar and batting coach Vikram Rathour) is set to undergo a complete overhaul after the marquee event scheduled to begin on October 17, the reports adds.
Shastri took over from Anil Kumble as head coach of the Indian cricket team in 2017, soon after the the Men in Blue lost to Pakistan in the Champions Trophy final.
Dravid to re-apply for NCA head role
The BCCI has invited job applications for Head of Cricket at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru, a role currently performed by former India captain Rahul Dravid. Dravid, who has played a significant role in creating India's rich bench strength, was appointed Head of Cricket in July 2019 after he worked extensively with the junior players as India U-19 and A coach. His two year-contract has ended and as per protocol, BCCI has invited applications. Dravid is likely to reapply for a two-year extension. The last date for application is August 15 (till 11.59 PM).
"Rahul Dravid could well reapply for the post but with Ravi Shastri's tenure ending in November 2021 after T20 WC, there is every possibility of Rahul being elevated to head coach's position. Bottom line, he remains very much a part of system," a BCCI source told PTI.
Dravid recently went to Sri Lanka as head coach of India's limited overs squad with the Test side in England at the same time. After the conclusion of the six games in Sri Lanka, he was asked if wanted to be India head coach on a long-term basis but he was non-committal on the high-profile subject. "I haven't really thought anything far ahead, to be honest. I am enjoying doing what I am doing," he had said.
The current age limit set for the head coach is 60 years, like the NCA head role, and Shastri turned 59 in May. Dravid might come into the picture if India don't do well in the T20 World Cup.
(With inputs from PTI)
